In Autum 2025 Aontas na Mac Léinn in Éirinn (formerly the Union of Students in Ireland), in partnership with Ulster University launched a survey on Gambling, Substance Use and Mental Health among students in third level education across the Island of Ireland. The study was funded by the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland.
There has never previously been data available on gambling behaviours of students in Ireland. Data does exist on substance use and mental health in students, however, the most recent data was collected either before or during the COVID-19 pandemic, so it was important to gather more up-to-date data.
904 students took part; with 545 females, 311 males, 38 non-binary and 10students who identified as another gender identity taking part. The findings presented here represent initial, high-level findings from that data. Further analysis will take place in due course.
The researchers would like to thank the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland for their funding, as well as all the students who took the time to complete the survey. For any queries related to this study, please contact Sarah Hughes, Mental Health Programme Manager, Aontas na Mac Léinn in Éirinn at mentalhealth@amle.ie.
These findings were launched at the AMLÉ Student Mental Health Event in DCU on 26th February 2026.
Report on Initial Findings on Student Gambling
Report on Initial Findings on Student Substance Use
Report on Initial Findings on Student Mental Health
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