Gambling amongst young people three times higher than last year
By Izzy Dine
RATES of “problem gambling” among 16–24-yearolds are three times higher this year than they were last year, according to a survey by the Gambling Commission (GC).
1.4 % of the age group are now considered problem gamblers, meaning they gamble to a degree which compromises their family or personal lives, up from 0.4 %last year.
The polling also found18–25-year-olds were the least likely to have gambled in the last four weeks (33%), but GC spokesperson Helen Bryce said the problem gambling figures were “worrying”.
She added the figures “reinforce the need for effective regulation and targeted support for young people”.
One possible reason for an increase in gambling among young people is the increased use of gambling apps.
Apps like BetUK and Kwiff give the public “a casino in
their pocket, 24 hours a day,” according to Heather Wardle of the University of Glasgow. Virginia, of the National Problem Gambling Clin-
ic, which helps people with problem gambling habits, and is a recovering gambler herself, says there is a “direct causal link” between an in-
crease in gambling problems in women and betting apps.
“Women find it extremely difficult to come forward for help, we really are failing women,” she said.
In January, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) asked GPs to look for problematic gamblers. This marks the first guidance on gambling from NICE, who provide advice for healthcare practitioners.
Professor Jonathan Benger, NICE’s chief medical officer said: “Gambling has a devastating impact on those who experience it, and the people close to them.”
He added the new guidelines would help identify those who need help with gambling earlier to “ensure they get the treatment and support they need”.
Government research from 2023 investigated the factors that could lead to harmful gambling among young people. They noted impulsivity, depression, substance use and being male as the most significant co-morbidities. If you’re concerned about your gambling habits, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 80 20 133.
Ramadan and University: how do you manage both?
By Khizra Mahmood
MANY students will be celebrating Ramadan this month while still continuing their studies at university.
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calender, where Muslims come together to fast, pray and reflect. Many Muslims use this month to better themselves as Muslims and improve their Deen to get closer to God. However, it can be challenging, especially for those who have important exams during the month or assignments to complete and hand in.
We asked students for their tips about how to combine Ramadan and university.
Aliyah 21 said: “When doing work or studying for exams I try make myself a
schedule to organise and divide up my workload just to make it easier for myself. I find doing this makes it more manageable as I have time to do my prayers, as well as assignment work.”
Some students make schedules to help create balance and make it easier for them to navigate the month, carving out time for their studies but also to prioritise prayers, time to read the Quran and reflect on themselves.
Zaynaa, 20, said: “I actually have an app that tracks my prayers and how many pages of the Quran I have read, especially during these busy university times. It is much easier for me do this as I am tracking everything, as well as creating a separate schedule to track and note down what
assignments I have started and where I am up to with it.” Many may find that fasting is difficult, especially when they have many assignments to hand in or exams to revise for.
Advice to cope with this included talking to class members, or those who are in the ISOC for support. Students can also talk to their lecturers about fasting, how it is making them feel and how they are trying to cope with it. Finally, if you suffer from health conditions you should consult with a doctor before fasting.
Despite the discipline required and challenges ramadan brings, many students and staff find that this month also brings them peace, reward and reflection.
gamblers. Image: ZACHARY CULPIN /SHUTTERSTOCK