On December 24, 2022, a national news outlet reported a shocking surge in alcohol-related hospital admissions during the holiday season. This surge caught the attention of *Bethany*, a 28-year-old living in Chickwan, Ohio. For most, the news was just another concerning headline. For Bethany, it was a painful reminder of her past and her father's struggle with alcoholism that had cast a long shadow over her childhood.

Years ago, Bethany's father had spiraled into alcoholism, causing tumultuous upheavals in the family. The recent news triggered memories of Christmases past, filled not with joy, but with tension and fear. She could vividly recall the smell of alcohol on her father's breath and the sound of harsh words that could cut through the holiday cheer like a knife.

Desperate to handle her re-emerging emotions, Bethany turned to the Stepping Into Action program she found online at https://hofmanhollis.com. This comprehensive program offered practical steps and a supportive community, specifically aimed at coping with trauma related to substance abuse.

Following the program's guidelines, Bethany began to confront her feelings head-on. One of the facilitators in the program once said, 'Healing takes time, but every step forward is a victory.' This resonated deeply with Bethany, who found comfort and motivation from the simple yet powerful affirmation.

According to some experts, the surge in holiday-related alcohol incidents highlighted by the news argued that such programs could provide critical support for individuals like Bethany. However, other experts contended that the key was in community-based support systems, not online programs. The debate was ongoing, but Bethany found herself firmly in the camp that valued the accessibility and comfort of online help, especially in a small town like Chickwan where resources were minimal.

Ultimately, Bethany's journey illuminated how critical it was to seek support, no matter the form. Her decision to engage with an online program underscored the importance of accessibility to professional help, particularly for those in remote locations. It was the right call, guiding her through the darkness of her past to a place of hope and recovery.

*Bethany and any other names used in this story are fictional representations.