On November 29, 2023, a shocking news article about a nationwide crackdown on illegal substances shook many communities. For Rachel*, a 35-year-old resident of Cokesbury, North Carolina, this news hit close to home for reasons she could not have foreseen. Rachel, who had struggled with substance abuse in her early twenties, found herself emotionally overrun, reliving memories she thought she had buried long ago.

The article triggered a flood of emotions for Rachel*, reminding her of the time she nearly lost everything to addiction. Those painful experiences came rushing back with such intensity that Rachel knew she needed to take action before she spiraled.

Feeling overwhelmed, she turned to the Stepping Into Action program found on hofmanhollis.com. As she followed the program's materials, Rachel began to feel a sense of hope. She appreciated the structured approach and the emphasis on self-reflection and empowerment.

I remember the first day I decided to change, said Rachel. It was like seeing a sliver of light in the darkest tunnel.

Experts have various opinions on how best to deal with such moments of crisis. Some believe that immediate clinical intervention is the key, while others advocate for structured, self-guided programs like Stepping Into Action. Gretchen Hollis, one of the program developers, stated, Online programs offer a private and accessible way to start the journey of change, even if they are not a substitute for professional help.

However, other experts argue that while online programs can be beneficial, they may lack the personalized touch needed to address deep-rooted issues. Despite this controversy, the availability of such resources was a blessing for Rachel, who found it challenging to access local support in Cokesbury.

In hindsight, seeking help through an online platform was the best decision Rachel made. It was difficult, but finding the Stepping Into Action program online offered her a lifeline when local options were scarce.

Nearby: Keats Virginia