Empowerment Zone Coalition, Inc.

As many Michigan seniors prepare to graduate and head to college, it's important to talk about the risks of sports betting. According to NCAA research:
• 58% of 18–22-year-olds bet on sports
• 16% have engaged in risky gambling behavior
• 6% reported significant losses in a single day
• 28% prefer mobile betting, with live in-game wagers most popular
Let’s help students make informed choices. Learn more at DontRegretTheBet.org.

May is National Stroke Awareness Month. Knowing the signs of a stroke is important, and you can remember it with F.A.S.T. This can save lives!

Ma*****na can cloud your mind and keep you from being your best self. Don't let ma*****na cloud your vibe!

🎲 Gambling among teens and young adults is becoming a growing concern — and the warning signs are not always obvious.

According to the National Council on Problem Gambling, more young people are being exposed to gambling through sports betting apps, online games, social media, cards, dice games, and other forms of betting.

⚠️ Warning signs may include:
• Carrying gambling materials like dice, cards, or poker chips
• Gambling with money meant for food, transportation, gas, or other necessities
• Skipping school, sports, work, or important activities to gamble
• Being dishonest with friends or family about gambling habits

What may start off as “just for fun” can quickly turn into stress, financial problems, anxiety, and harmful behaviors.

💚 Sometimes the people who need support the most don’t always say it out loud. That’s why it’s important to check in, pay attention, and start the conversation.

You do not have to be a mental health professional to make a difference. A caring conversation, a listening ear, or simply noticing the signs can help someone feel seen and supported.

🔍 Signs someone may be struggling:
• Pulling away from friends, family, or activities they once enjoyed
• Changes in sleep, eating habits, or energy levels
• Feeling hopeless, sad, or easily irritated
• Losing interest in things they care about
• Giving away belongings or saying goodbye unexpectedly

If you notice these signs, remember QPR:

❓ QUESTION — Ask directly and calmly: “Are you thinking about hurting yourself?”
💬 PERSUADE — Listen without judgment. Let them know they are not alone and that help is available.
📞 REFER — Encourage them to connect with trusted support, resources, or professional help.

Prevention starts with awareness, compassion, and community. One conversation could help save a life. 💚

If you or someone you know needs support, contact the 988 Su***de & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.

Approximately 75 percent of college students gambled during the past year (whether legally or illegally) with about 18 percent gambling weekly or more frequently. Source: https://www.collegegambling.org/.../fact-sheet-gambling...

THC Making You Puke?
Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) is a poorly understood vomiting disorder associated with chronic cannabis use, highest in the 16-24 age group.
– pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36307209

Myth: Only uneducated people develop gambling addictions.

Fact: Gambling addiction can affect people of any background, any income, and any education level.

Cannabis is medicine, right?

🎱 Bingo may seem like harmless fun, but when money or prizes are involved, it becomes a form of gambling.

Gambling is defined as risking something of value on a game of chance with the hope of winning something in return. Bingo includes all three elements:
✔️ You pay to play
✔️ The outcome is based on chance
✔️ There is a prize to win

While many people play socially, bingo can still lead to risky gambling behaviors, financial stress, and addiction for some individuals. Understanding the risks helps people make informed and responsible choices.

Know the facts. Play responsibly. 💙