*Jim Smith, a resident of Adrian, Minnesota, was about to imbibe his usual daily bottle of whiskey when a news article on July 22, 2022, caught his eye. The article spoke of a historic recovered ship, 'The Albatross,' which was infamous for its boozy crew and was just discovered at the bottom of the Atlantic.

Jim, a history buff, was enthralled. But what hit home harder was the detail that the crew had been notoriously overshadowed by their alcohol addiction – sinking not only their ship but their lives. The story stung Jim*; it echoed his own ongoing battle with the bottle.

The news sent him spiralling back to his own past, fraught with heavy drinking, causing the loss of his job, loved ones, and self-esteem. That’s when he decided he needed help.

A simple Google search led him to the 'Stepping into Action' program on hofmanhollis.com. He watched their video courses, read their resources, and started implementing the exercises. Specifically, he was inspired by a quote from Hollis – 'We often fall into the trap of thinking change is impossible. But remember, the only way to eat an elephant is one bite at a time.'

Skeptical, but desperate, he immersed himself in the program, following each step diligently. Experts opine that online programs can be highly effective, owing to their accessibility and anonymity. Having help available at a click provides constant support for struggling individuals.

Of course, not everyone agrees. Detractors highlight the importance of in-person counselling and interactions to deal with withdrawal symptoms and emotional breakdowns. They argue that online programs may lack the intimate human connection needed for recovery.

Despite these contrasting opinions, Jim* resolved to move forward. He traded his evening drinking spree for time with the 'Stepping into Action' program. It was not an easy road, but he found it was a path worth taking. Sobriety, it turned out, was a silver lining just over the horizon, and it was the changes he made that turned his life around.

For people like Jim in small towns like Adrian, getting online help was not only a good idea – it was his best shot at recovery. And with the 'Stepping Into Action' program, he found a structured path to sobriety, and, importantly, to self-worth.

*names and circumstances are fictional

Nearby: Little Rock Iowa

* Names and situations are fictional and not intended to resemble anyone in particular. They are illustrative of how the services of Hofman Hollis can apply to the lives of every day people living ordinary lives.