By JOSH SOUSA Staff Writer

Roulette, blackjack, poker, keno, slots and more - it’s all fun and games until someone loses an eye, or a tuition.Gambling has always been a dangerous pastime. A social activity for some, gambling can also swallow one into a sea of debt, lies and addiction.  

With accessibility at an all time high, the dangers of gambling are more relevant than ever. Photo by Josh Sousa

As the gambling world more frequently invades the day-to-day life of the average person, be it on television, online or even on a cellphone, people are more and more falling victim to its saddening and weary dark side. Beyond the fun lies a harsh reality: gambling can cause much harm. David Sreiberg, 20, an Adrian College student in Michigan and online poker player, explains just how gambling can ensnare him on any given day.

“Whether you’re online or at your friend’s house watching the game, there is always the chance to gamble or play a little cards. More often than not, it’s not for money or that much money, but sometimes there is always that risky feeling taken to earn a little something.” Playing since high school, Sreiberg has developed a knack for the game and knowledge of the harm it can bring. “I haven’t ever played to the point where I could get hurt, but ... I have lost a hand or two since I started,” explained Sreiberg.

“You need to really know your limits to be able to gamble. It’s about having fun in the end, not trying to break the bank. Although it’s nice to win, some people are willing to put way too much out there to get ahold of that feeling.” While it may be a safe and controlled hobby for some, others can all too often fall victim to the bullet of gambling. Vince Leblanc-Beaudoin, 21, a theatre student at the University of Ottawa, is more conservative when it comes to the gambling world. “I just don’t really see a need for it.

As students, we have so many other things to worry about and money, being not easy to come by, can’t just be tossed away. I’m not against gambling, but you won’t catch me throwing my extra money at the casinos.” Gambling can start off at half a cent per hand and work its way well into the thousands of dollars. A smart gambler knows when he is out of luck; a dangerous gambler is not always so lucky. Jake Longmuir, 20, a Niagara local studying at the University of Ontario Institute of Technology, has made many trips with friends to the casino.

“You need to be able to afford it, first off. There’s really no point of going if you can’t afford to lose a few bucks. Some people just can’t handle losing, and they keep throwing down chips to try and win it back. It’s easy to forget how much you put down if you’re not careful, and it’s easy to dig a hole you can’t get out of if you’re not smart about it or with people who are. Go big or go home, but go home with a life, too, and not a wreck.”

Being educated and well disciplined are the first steps to a safe journey as a student situated in the midst of a gambling era. The following websites are two of thousands of informative and influential sites on how to be aware of gambling issues, coping and dealing with addiction and helping someone through their issues.

More information can be found at www.21stepstostopgambling.com and www.camh.net. Money isn’t everything, but it isn’t something to throw away.