High Stakes, Low Mood: Gambling Behavior and Mental Health Across Age Groups in Indiana
Session Title
Poster session
Presentation Type
Poster Presentation
Start Date
27-5-2026 12:00 AM
Abstract
Gambling behavior is recognized as part of broader mental health outcomes across the lifespan. Prior research indicates that gambling problems are associated with psychological distress, including depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. Despite growing evidence of these links, few studies have examined gambling behavior and mental health patterns across multiple age groups within a single state population. This study examines gambling participation, problem-gambling severity, and self-reported mental health indicators among youth, college students, and adults in Indiana. Data were drawn from three statewide surveys conducted between 2023 and 2025. Measures included gambling frequency and type, validated problem-gambling indices, awareness and help-seeking behaviors, and self-reported mental health indicators such as stress, depression, and mentally unhealthy days. Across all age groups, gambling participation was common but varied by form. Youth and college students reported higher engagement in online and sports gambling, whereas adults more frequently reported lottery and casino play. Greater gambling severity was associated with elevated psychological distress and substance use across age groups, yet awareness of and engagement with treatment services remained low. These findings underscore the need for prevention and intervention strategies that address gambling and mental health through early intervention, education, and improved awareness of available support.
High Stakes, Low Mood: Gambling Behavior and Mental Health Across Age Groups in Indiana
Gambling behavior is recognized as part of broader mental health outcomes across the lifespan. Prior research indicates that gambling problems are associated with psychological distress, including depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. Despite growing evidence of these links, few studies have examined gambling behavior and mental health patterns across multiple age groups within a single state population. This study examines gambling participation, problem-gambling severity, and self-reported mental health indicators among youth, college students, and adults in Indiana. Data were drawn from three statewide surveys conducted between 2023 and 2025. Measures included gambling frequency and type, validated problem-gambling indices, awareness and help-seeking behaviors, and self-reported mental health indicators such as stress, depression, and mentally unhealthy days. Across all age groups, gambling participation was common but varied by form. Youth and college students reported higher engagement in online and sports gambling, whereas adults more frequently reported lottery and casino play. Greater gambling severity was associated with elevated psychological distress and substance use across age groups, yet awareness of and engagement with treatment services remained low. These findings underscore the need for prevention and intervention strategies that address gambling and mental health through early intervention, education, and improved awareness of available support.