On May 5, 2024, a sudden and unexpected flash flood swept through Attawan Beach, Connecticut. Streets were submerged, homes were damaged, and the community was left in disarray. For *Emily Moreland*, a long-time resident, this event triggered a wave of emotions and memories from her past. As she stood watching the water rise outside her home, she couldn't help but be reminded of another flood—one that had engulfed her family years ago when her father’s struggles with alcoholism reached their peak.

Emily had thought she had moved past those memories, but the flood brought them rushing back. She remembered the nights spent in fear, the arguments, and the eventual decision to leave and start anew in Attawan Beach. Though she had found some peace, this natural disaster unlocked the door to the past she had tried so hard to keep shut.

Desperate for a way to cope, Emily discovered the Stepping Into Action program on the Hofman Hollis website. Guided by the materials and support offered online, Emily took the first steps toward addressing her lingering trauma and the impact of her father’s alcoholism on her life. She started attending virtual support sessions and reading about resilience and recovery. Quoting Emily, she shared, 'It felt like the flood finally gave me permission to face the water I had been drowning in for years.'

Experts in trauma recovery emphasize the importance of seeking help. Dr. *Robert Mills*, a psychologist specializing in PTSD, explains that facing past traumas is essential for long-term mental health. 'It’s never too late to address the pains of the past,’ he says. However, not all agree. Dr. *Linda Crosby*, an advocate for a more present-focused approach, argues, 'While it’s important to recognize past traumas, endlessly dwelling on them can hinder current progress.'

Despite the differing opinions, Emily felt that confronting her past was necessary for her healing. Finding the Stepping Into Action program online was a profound, turning point. Without many local resources, having access to these materials virtually provided her the lifeline she needed.

This journey showcased that seeking help, even if it's found online, can lead to meaningful and life-changing progress. It was a good reminder that the first step towards healing is often the most important, and sometimes, it takes an unexpected event to catalyze that change.

*All names and situations described are fictional

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