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A new study points to a sharp and concerning rise in young men seeking help for gambling harms in Ontario. Researchers found that calls and contacts to the province’s gambling helpline have surged in recent years, particularly among males aged 15 to 24.
The research, published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, analyzed data from ConnexOntario between 2012 and 2023. The most striking finding was a more than 300 per cent increase in gambling-related contacts among young men following major expansions in online gambling access across the province.
Ontario’s gambling landscape has shifted dramatically over the past decade. The launch of PlayOLG in 2015 marked the province’s first significant move into online wagering. That shift accelerated in 2022 when Ontario opened its regulated market to private online operators, ushering in a wave of digital sportsbooks and online casinos.
According to the study, the timing is difficult to ignore. Researchers observed steep increases in help-seeking behaviour shortly after these policy changes. While older men also showed notable rises in gambling-related contacts, the spike among young adults was the most pronounced.
Experts behind the study suggest the accessibility of mobile betting, constant advertising and the integration of gambling into sports culture may be contributing factors. Online gambling platforms are available around the clock, often accompanied by promotional offers and targeted marketing that disproportionately reaches younger audiences.
The findings do not necessarily mean more people are developing gambling disorders, but they do signal that more young men are experiencing enough harm or distress to reach out for support. Public health advocates argue this underscores the need for stronger safeguards, clearer public education campaigns and expanded treatment resources.
As Ontario’s regulated market continues to mature, the data raises a pressing question for policymakers. Increased choice and revenue may come with measurable social costs, particularly for younger players navigating an increasingly digital gambling environment.