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A recent study has brought to light concerning trends among young adults engaged in gambling, with a significant portion of those aged 18 to 24 admitting to gambling beyond their financial means.

The research, focusing on gambling behavior over the past year, indicates that 42% of these young individuals are taking considerable financial risks. Alarmingly, more than a third have resorted to borrowing money or selling personal belongings to fund their gambling activities, The Guardian reported.

Additionally, the study unveiled a troubling psychological aspect of young adult gambling. The majority of gamblers in this age group reported feelings of guilt related to their gambling and 39% had experienced mental health challenges directly linked to their gambling habits. Notably, sports betting was acknowledged by one-third of the respondents.

While recent figures from the Gambling Commission suggested a decline in overall gambling among young adults -- with participation dropping from 35.8% in 2019 to 28.9% -- the study's findings indicated that those who continue to gamble are facing more severe challenges than older gamblers.

Commissioned by GambleAware and conducted by Ipsos, the study's revelations are particularly concerning for those involved in preventing gambling harm in the UK. These findings come amidst discussions on the Gambling Reform Act, which proposes additional safeguards for gamblers under 25, such as stake limits in online casinos. However, this Act has seen delays and was not addressed in the latest king's speech.

In response to these findings, GambleAware, an independent charity focused on education about gambling harm, is advocating for more open dialogues about the negative impacts of gambling. The survey revealed a concerning lack of communication, with 64% of those experiencing gambling problems not discussing their issues with anyone.

GambleAware is also pushing for a change in the narrative surrounding gambling harm, promoting language that avoids stigmatization and encourages a collective responsibility in finding solutions.

Zoë Osmond, CEO of GambleAware, emphasized the importance of recognizing and addressing gambling as a serious public health issue. She is advocating for increased awareness and utilization of support services and encourages open discussions about gambling harm as early as possible, given its potential impact on anyone.