Pick a Card, any Card

Gambling is a dangerous addiction that is seen through many circumstances like card playing, die rolling, and sports betting. As more and more college students feel the urge to beat the dealer in cards, more universities are searching to limit and restrict gambling capabilities.

In a study done by the Division of Addictions at Harvard Medical School, health supporters feel that universities need to address gambling like drinking. The study shows that of the 119 colleges tested, 26 colleges already have strict rules and regulations about such gambling. With only a small chunk of colleges that have regulations, it is easy to see why researchers at Harvard Medical School are concerned about the fact that 3 in 11 students have a gambling problem. Inside Higher Ed finds that multiple sources acknowledge this fact, and this situation can easily result in decrease in academic performances, increase in mental issues, or financial problems.

Obviously, gambling is a real problem on college campuses, and committees and panels are pushing for regulation and control. The vice chancellor for student affairs at Indiana university, George S. McClellan, believes that these findings are "spot on"; however, colleges need to help students and provide support for students who are really suffering from an addiction to gambling. If colleges treat gambling like many other addictions, the turnover rate for rehab students has a great chance to increase.

As colleges begin to establish disciplinary committees for gambling, colleges should consider counseling panels as well. The concept of a secret counselor who students can trust, will provide essential support and guidance for students who are suffering from an addiction to gambling. If colleges play their cards right, gambling problems can be solved and regulated by using considerate guidance.