Gambling Addiction Speaker Shares Personal Journey with Students

 Saul Malek, a 26-year-old recovering gambling addict, spoke in chapel this week to share his personal story about the dangers of sports betting and gambling addiction among young adults.

In his talk to students, titled "Why RISK your life? LIVE IT!", Mr. Malek recounted his own experience, which began with a simple $10 bet during college and quickly escalated into a destructive pattern of addiction. He noted that increased access to gambling significantly raises the risk of addiction, adding that online platforms have made gambling more and more accessible.  

National surveys reveal that gambling among young men, particularly sports betting, is on the rise compared to the general population."The topic of gambling addiction should be given the same level of attention and discussion as other important wellness topics, such as substance use prevention, sex education, relationships, and mental health awareness," said Director of Health and Wellness Hope Rupley.  

Now five years abstinent, Mr. Malek has made it his mission to educate others about the risks of gambling, drawing from his experiences featured in the New York Times and on the Dr. Phil Show.

In addition to his student presentation, Mr. Malek also conducted a separate session with parents and guardians to raise awareness about youth gambling. His visit was a part of the Belmont Hill Speaker Program.