Ontario youth gambling rates rise following market expansion

New research from the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) indicates a significant rise in gambling activities among students in Ontario. Data from the Ontario Student Drug Use and Health Survey reveals that one in five students reported engaging in some form of gambling within the past year. Specifically, online sports betting among students increased from 8% to 12% since 2023, representing a 50% growth in online gambling participation.

The surge follows the 2022 opening of Ontario’s online gambling market to licensed operators such as DraftKings and FanDuel. In the last fiscal year, active accounts in the province placed more than $82 billion in bets. Researchers note that the accessibility of smartphones and aggressive marketing have made it easier for minors to bypass age restrictions.

Beyond student surveys, a study in the Canadian Medical Association Journal reported an increase in gambling helpline calls, with boys and young men aged 15 to 24 making up the majority of those seeking help. Regulators have already begun enforcement, including a $120,000 fine against an online casino for allowing underage access to its platform.