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With March having been Problem Gambling Awareness month, the University of Calgary Recovery Community (UCRC) set out to challenge misconceptions and shed light on the realities of gambling addiction. 

In a student-led on March 25, titled Breaking the Odds: Challenging Myths and Misconceptions Around Gambling, presenters explored the risks of problem gambling, its increasing prevalence among young adults and the stigma that prevents individuals from seeking help.

Gambling addiction is often misunderstood. While other forms of addiction, such as substance use, are widely recognized, betting is often dismissed as a harmless pastime, said speaker Meghan Tkachuk, a fourth-year social work student. 

“One of the misconceptions that we talk about is that gambling isn’t as serious as any other kinds of addictions,” said Tkachuk. “But research shows that it’s just as detrimental, if not more, than other substance or behavioural addictions.”

Student presenters share insights on gambling risks

Tkachuk, alongside Christopher Magdalek, a second-year Aboriginal-focused addictions studies student at Bow Valley College, presented research and insights they gathered during their practicum placements with UCRC. 

At first, Magdalek wasn’t fully aware of how gambling addiction manifests. 

“I knew about as much about gambling as the next person,” he said. “But, through this project, I’ve learned how different aspects of gambling can relate to everyday life. 

“For example, day trading is a form of gambling, and I started wondering if my own friends who day trade might be struggling with something similar.”

Cole Tosczak BA’24, a UCRC outreach co-ordinator, explained why the team chose to focus on gambling this year. 

“Gambling is something that has changed drastically in the last few years,” said Tosczak. “It’s becoming more normalized at sporting events, in apps and online. 

“The Canadian Government’s laws around gambling have shifted quickly, and we’re seeing younger people exposed to it more often. At the same time, there’s not enough awareness about the potential risks.”

Building a campus-wide support system

One of the primary goals of the session was to help faculty and staff better understand addiction to betting so they can support students who may be struggling. 

“We never know who we’re a role model for until we are one,” Tosczak said. 

“A student might not feel comfortable coming to me, but they might confide in a professor or advisor. That’s why it’s so important to arm our community with knowledge and resources.”

The discussion also addressed the stigma that surrounds such addiction, which can prevent individuals from acknowledging their struggles. 

“A lot of people think, ‘This is just a part of life. This is what I do for fun,’” Magdalek said. “But, eventually, they start realizing it’s affecting other areas of their life.”

The hidden dangers of modern gambling

One of the emerging concerns around gambling is its increasing presence in video games and online spaces. 

“In-game features like loot boxes and skins are designed in a way that mimics gambling,” said Chelsie Graham, BSW’22, program manager at UCRC. “It’s targeting younger audiences in ways people don’t always recognize.”

The Lunch and Unlearn session also emphasized the importance of creating supportive environments where individuals feel safe to seek help. 

“You can’t force someone to identify with having a problem,” Tkachuk said. “But you can create a space where they feel comfortable sharing and where they know support is available.”

Encouraging education and awareness

For students, faculty, and staff looking for support, UCRC offers a range of resources, including recovery ally training and partnerships with Student Wellness Services. 

“We provide a breadth of programs, whether it’s harm reduction, moderation or abstinence-focused support,” Graham said. “It all depends on the individual’s goals.”

While UCRC is not a research institution, Tosczak encouraged those interested in deeper insights to explore the work of UCalgary researchers who specialize in gambling addiction studies. 

“We’re not experts in the field of gambling research,” Tosczak emphasized. “Our goal is to raise awareness and advocate for informed conversations.”

Ultimately, the session highlighted the need for ongoing education and awareness. 

“Addiction is non-discriminatory,” Tosczak said. “It doesn’t matter who you are, where you’re from, or what you believe; it’s something that can affect anyone. 

“Our job is to make sure the support systems are there when people need them.”