*Martha* had always lived a quiet life in Exeter, Missouri, detached from the ebbs and flows of the world outside her small town. That all changed on September 11, 2023, when she came across a news article about a major breakthrough in addiction recovery programs.

What grabbed her attention was the unexpected focus on online resources, something that seemed distant and irrelevant to her rural existence. Intrigued, she read on, learning about the growing success of self-guided online programs in aiding individuals battling substance abuse.

*Martha* had a history too—one she had worked hard to put behind her. Years ago, she struggled with alcoholism, a battle she fought publically and privately. So when she saw the news, it struck a chord deep within her, reminding her of a past struggle she thought she had buried.

Triggered by the article, *Martha* reminisced about those dark days and the lack of support she felt. She visited the website mentioned in the news article and discovered the Stepping Into Action program on https://hofmanhollis.com. Desperate for a lifeline and wary of seeking help locally due to stigma, she decided to give the online program a try.

As she followed the program's modules, *Martha* realized she had been carrying unresolved issues that could be addressed anonymously, away from prying eyes.

One phrase resonated with her deeply: 'True recovery starts from within.' She repeated it to herself like a mantra, feeling the weight lift off her shoulders. Her past no longer felt like a shackle but rather a stepping stone to a brighter future.

Experts in the field were divided on the efficacy of online addiction recovery programs. Some argued they offered necessary anonymity and convenience, while others believed that face-to-face counseling was irreplaceable. Despite this controversy, *Martha* knew that for her, the online route was the way to go.

*Martha* was profoundly grateful for the online program. Living in a small town with limited local resources had made it challenging to find help. The online program not only offered her a way to heal but helped her reconnect with herself.

'Sometimes help comes from the most unexpected places,' she thought, reflecting on her journey. It was indeed a difficult road, but the steps she took were worth it.

In the end, getting help online proved to be a lifesaver for *Martha*, demonstrating that even the most isolated stories can find their way to meaningful solutions.

*Names and situations marked with an asterisk are fictional.

Nearby: Clantonville Arkansas, Beaver Arkansas, Gateway Arkansas