Breaking the Cycle: How Jonathan Took Control of His Gambling Habits
Taking the first step toward change is never easy, especially when it involves breaking free from something that’s become part of your daily life. Something that brings excitement, comfort and an escape from reality. For Jonathan (or, “Johno” as he’s known around here), gambling started as just another hobby. But over time, it began controlling his nights, his thoughts, and even his wellbeing.
When Johno made the courageous decision to self-exclude from online gambling, it became the turning point that changed everything. With the guidance and support of his team here at Maple Community Services, Johno has not only cut gambling from his life, he has gained new perspective, routine, and control. This is his story.
What Gambling Addiction Can Really Look Like
For many people, gambling doesn’t start as a problem. It begins as a thrill. A quick escape, a distraction, or even a social habit. But when gambling becomes something you rely on to feel good, or when you find yourself thinking about it constantly, it can quickly take over.
That’s exactly what happened for one of our SIL residents, and incredible participants, Johno. Each payday became a trigger. He’d gamble as soon as the money hit his account, often staying awake between 12am and 3am chasing the next win.
The losses weren’t just financial, they took a toll on his mental health, sleep, and sense of control. And, like many others, he knew something had to change but couldn’t bring himself to stop.
How Maple Community Services Supported Johno’s Recovery
It was through the guidance and encouragement of Maple Community Services that Johno finally found the strength to take that first step. We organised sessions with a Behaviour Support Clinician, and took Johno to explore the emotional triggers behind his gambling habits and build practical coping strategies.
His support workers and management team still check in regularly, we offer reassurance, and support strategies. We didn’t just help him stay accountable, we reminded him that he wasn’t doing this alone.
Building Better Habits: The Tools That Helped Johno Succeed
True recovery isn’t about removing something, it can involve replacing it with something better. Those first two weeks after self-excluding were, in his words, “the hardest.” The sudden shift in routine without the constant pull of online gambling left a void. But over time, Johno began to fill that space with new interests, social connections, and meaningful activities.
Johno holds the number one attendance record at Maple’s Day Programs. Every week he shows up with excitement and has formed some amazing friendships within the community. He tells us that the cooking classes are his favourite and he rates himself the best chef in the room.
Johno has found a love for video games, and his support workers regularly take him to the Apple Store to play. Last month, he caught the train from Sydney to Melbourne to attend the PAX gaming convention, with his support worker Ahmed. These are all things that weren’t possibly financially or physically before.
Reflecting on the Journey
A short summary of Johno’s journey doesn’t capture just how far he’s truly come. There were dark days, setbacks, and moments of doubt, but through it all, he kept showing up for himself. Every relapse became a lesson and every small win a reminder to keep going. Today, Johno stands proud of the progress he’s made. While he hasn’t defined his next goal just yet, he’s enjoying the freedom that comes from no longer letting gambling control his time, his energy, or his sense of worth.
At Maple Community Services, we couldn’t be prouder. Every story like Johno’s reminds us why we do what we do. Because everyone deserves the chance to rebuild, to recover, and to live to the fullest.
Finding Support for Addictive Behaviours
If you see yourself in Johno’s story, know this: you’re not alone. It might not be gambling, but substances, food, alcohol or other behaviours that control your life. Addiction doesn’t define who you are. All it takes is the right support and taking the first step, and change is possible.
At Maple Community Services, we help people across Australia find balance, build healthier routines, and access the right supports through the NDIS and our Complex and Behavioural Support Services.
Reach out to our friendly team today to learn how we can help you or someone you care about take back control: one step, one conversation, one positive change at a time.
