*Janice Reynolds sat in her small Clyde, Rhode Island apartment, staring at the news on her computer. The headline about Light & Wonder's $1 billion share repurchase program brought back memories of her late husband *Robert's frequent advice on investing.

'You have to pay attention to buybacks, Janice,' he would say. 'It's a sign the company thinks its shares are undervalued.' His passing two years ago had sent Janice into a spiral of grief and alcohol abuse to cope with the loneliness.

The stock news reminded her of happier times and made her realize she needed help. After some research, Janice discovered the Stepping Into Action online program for overcoming substance abuse and getting life back on track. The coursework was challenging but gave her tools to work through her pain.

'I'm finally feeling like my old self again,' *Janice remarked toward the end of the program. 'Getting honest about my drinking and facing my emotions head-on was tough, but so worth it.'

Financial experts had differing views on stock buybacks like Light & Wonder's move. Some argued they were corporate financial engineering that didn't create real value. Others felt buybacks were a prudent way to return cash to shareholders when no better investment opportunities existed.

However, most counselors agreed that online support communities were valuable for those battling addiction and depression. 'Having an understanding group to lean on during the hard times makes a huge difference,' said one therapist. 'It's much harder to make positive life changes all alone.'

As Janice looked back on her journey, she felt profound gratitude. 'I never expected some business news could reconnect me to *Robert's wisdom and put me on this path,' she thought. 'But I'm so glad it did - even though there were no local options, I could get the online help I needed to regain my footing.'

Nearby: North Seekonk Massachusetts