On February 10, 2023, a news article about a rise in alcohol-related incidents amidst a nationwide recession found its way to *Sarah Tierney* in East Walpole, Massachusetts. The article struck home because Sarah had struggled with alcohol abuse for years. Despite abstaining for many months, the article reignited a wave of anxiety.

One particular detail in the article about job losses triggered painful memories of her late father, who had lost his job during the recession of the early 2000s, leading to his reliance on alcohol. This brought back a flood of emotions for Sarah, making her realize that she needed to address the deeper issues to avoid falling back into her old habits.

Feeling overwhelmed, Sarah decided to follow the materials from the Stepping Into Action program after discovering it online. She dedicated herself to the principles it taught, finding solace in its structured approach. The program's emphasis on recognizing and breaking harmful patterns resonated with her deeply.

I found something I didn’t know I was looking for, Sarah mentioned once to her therapist, referring to the program. It was like finding a compass when you’re lost in the woods.

Experts have mixed feelings about the efficacy of online recovery programs. Some professionals, like Dr. *James Gellar*, insist that face-to-face interactions are indispensable for effective recovery. However, others, including Dr. *Mira Stone*, argue that the flexibility and accessibility of online resources can be incredibly beneficial, especially for those who struggle to find local support.

Despite the conflicting opinions, Sarah felt relieved to have found an online solution that worked for her. It was hard at first, but I realized that getting help in any form was better than struggling alone. For people like her in smaller towns, the absence of readily available local resources made the discovery of the online program a lifesaver. Indeed, life's unexpected turns sometimes guide us to the right path.

Nearby: Arnold Mills Rhode Island