MCF Provides Peer-Based Support for Young Adults and Caregivers Impacted by Gaming or Gambling Harms
Supporting Families Around Problem Gambling & Risky Gaming
We provide family peer support to caregivers of youth and young adults who may be at risk of developing problem gambling or risky gaming behaviors. Our work centers on support, education, and empowerment, helping families navigate concerns early and connect to resources without fear or judgment.
Gambling and gaming behaviors can impact a young person’s emotional health, relationships, academics, and financial well-being. Families often notice changes first, but may not always recognize how gambling is showing up or where to turn for help. That’s where we come in.
We can help you:
- Recognize early warning signs of risky gambling or gaming
- Learn how to start supportive, non-judgmental conversations
- Understand how gambling harms can affect youth and families
- Reduce shame and stigma around asking for help
- Connect to trusted resources and community supports
If you’re concerned about a young person, or simply want to learn more, you are not alone. Support is available, and reaching out is a sign of strength. Please reach out to Nicole Ukoumunne for support and guidance.
Support for Young Adults Around Gambling & Gaming
If gambling or gaming is starting to feel stressful, overwhelming, or out of control, you’re not alone. We provide peer support for young adults who may be experiencing harms related to gambling or risky gaming behaviors.
Gambling and gaming can impact your mental health, relationships, school or work life, and finances, sometimes in ways that are hard to recognize at first. You might notice changes in your mood, sleep, spending, or how you’re connecting with others. Reaching out for support doesn’t mean something is “wrong” with you, it means you’re taking care of yourself.
We’re here to offer support without judgment, pressure, or shame.
We can help you:
- Recognize early signs that gambling or gaming may be becoming a problem
- Talk through what’s been going on in a safe, confidential space
- Explore strategies to regain balance and control
- Reduce feelings of guilt, shame, or isolation
- Connect to trusted resources and additional supports if you want them
You don’t have to figure it out alone. Support is here when you’re ready.
If you’re a young adult experiencing challenges related to gaming or gambling, you can call or text 443-896-6791 to speak to a young adult peer who offers supportive, non-judgmental guidance grounded in lived experience.
Understanding Gambling & Gaming Risks for Youth
Gambling today looks very different than it did in the past. Young people may be exposed to gambling intentionally or unintentionally through:
- Online games with loot boxes or in-game purchases
- Sports betting apps and fantasy sports
- Social casino games that use virtual currency
- Influencer content and advertising on social media
- Betting tied to e-sports or online competitions
These experiences can normalize gambling behaviors and increase risk, especially for youth whose brains are still developing.
#DontBetYetMD: A Youth & Family Awareness Campaign
Our #DontBetYetMD campaign focuses on prevention, education, and advocacy. The goals of the campaign are to:
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Encourage students to abstain from underage gambling
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Educate youth and families about gambling-related harms
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Raise awareness of how students are exposed to gambling, both intentionally and unintentionally
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Reduce stigma around students and loved ones seeking help or resources
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Empower students to use their voices to speak out against known and unknown gambling harms
The campaign also helps parents and caregivers understand that gambling is not always obvious, and may begin through gaming, sports, or online platforms long before a problem is recognized.
Empowering Families & Youth to Advocate for Change
We believe prevention starts with knowledge and connection. By supporting families and amplifying youth voices, we work to create safer environments, challenge harmful norms around underage gambling, and promote healthier choices for young people.
All our services are confidential and free to families regardless of income or insurance. To submit a request for services, click on the Request Services Now button at the top right of this page. If you have questions or want more information, please email us at [email protected] or call 410-730-8267.
Resources for More Information
University of Maryland Center for Excellence on Problem Gambling promotes healthy and informed choices regarding gambling and problem gambling though public awareness, and training.