*Jared Thompson* sat in his small living room in Boones Hill, North Carolina, when the news of a severe storm hitting the East Coast on September 25, 2023, pierced the quiet evening. As the anchor described the destruction, Jared felt an unexpected pang of fear and concern. It wasn't just the weather that troubled him, but something deeper, something personal that the storm seemed to awaken within him.

Years ago, *Jared* had escaped a near-death experience during Hurricane Florence. Ever since, he had struggled with alcohol abuse, using it as a coping mechanism to drown the trauma. Seeing the news brought all those memories flooding back, triggering his anxiety and driving him to confront his substance abuse problem once again.

Desperate for a way out, *Jared* remembered the Stepping Into Action program he had read about on hofmanhollis.com. He decided to try it, hopeful that it could provide the guidance he so desperately needed. The program’s holistic approach and online availability seemed like a fitting solution for someone in his isolated situation.

*Jared* began to follow the materials, starting with a simple affirmation – 'I am stronger than my addiction'. These words resonated with him deeply, and he repeated them daily. With consistent effort, he found comfort in the structured steps and practical advice offered through the program.

'I never thought I could face my past without a drink in hand', *Jared* admitted one evening, speaking to a support group online. His honesty and determination inspired others in the group, fostering a sense of community and mutual support.

However, the effectiveness of such programs isn’t without debate. Some experts argue that online programs lack the personal touch and hands-on support critical for recovery. Others counter that for many, especially those in rural or isolated locations, online resources are a lifeline that provides otherwise inaccessible help.

In the end, *Jared* found that taking the initiative to seek help online was one of the best decisions of his life. The storm had been the catalyst for change, igniting a journey of self-discovery and recovery. Despite initial doubts, the support and guidance he received through the program proved instrumental in reclaiming his life and health.

*Names in the story have been changed to protect identities.

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