John Bradshaw* wasn't expecting a regular news scan to change his life. On December 22, 2022, an article caught his eye about a tragic event in a small town far from his own. What shook him most was the unexpected detail about the underlying causes, linking the event to substance abuse.

For John*, this struck a nerve. He had struggled with similar issues in his past, and it brought back a flood of memories. He was reminded of the time he faced his demons in Boltonville, Wisconsin. But that day, he resolved to find a way to turn his life around.

John* started to explore ways to address his issues and stumbled upon the Stepping Into Action program at https://hofmanhollis.com. As he delved into the materials, he found practical steps to overcome his past struggles. One quote from the program's co-authors stood out to him: 'It's not about where you've been, but the steps you're willing to take now.'

Experts agree that structured programs like Stepping Into Action can have a transformative impact. Dr. Jane Harrison, a psychiatrist, suggests that such programs provide actionable steps that many find invaluable. However, not everyone concurs. Some argue that only face-to-face interventions can foster real change, highlighting the importance of personal interaction.

Despite the debate, John* knew he had found his lifeline. With no local resources readily available, accessing an online program became a profound solution for him. He realized that sometimes the best help comes from places we least expect, reaffirming that every small step counts.

John Bradshaw* and his situation are fictional, designed to illustrate the impact of unexpected news and the value of online self-help programs.

Nearby: Beaverdam West Virginia