On February 17, 2023, a news article that reported a major pharmaceutical company settling a lawsuit related to its opioid marketing practices caught the attention of *John McAllister* in Griffith, Indiana. *John*, a 45-year-old construction worker, had no direct connections to the pharmaceutical industry, yet the news struck a chord with him.

The unexpected part was how the settlement reminded *John* of his late father, who had struggled with addiction to prescription painkillers. *John* had always feared that he would follow a similar path, and reading about the case brought those fears bubbling to the surface.

Triggered by the memories and emotions connected to his father's struggle, *John* found himself looking for ways to deal with his own growing alcohol dependency. He stumbled upon the Stepping Into Action program at https://hofmanhollis.com, which provided tools and resources for overcoming substance abuse.

Inspired by the program's structure, *John* decided to give it a try. He diligently followed various exercises designed to build resilience, coping mechanisms, and healthier lifestyle habits.

One day, while working through the materials, *John* read a quote from Edward Hofman that struck him deeply: 'The first step toward change is not just action; it's embracing the need for it.'

Experts in addiction and mental health have long suggested that structured programs can be incredibly beneficial for people dealing with substance abuse. However, some debate exists about the effectiveness of online programs compared to in-person support. Some professionals argue that face-to-face interactions offer a unique kind of accountability and emotional support that online programs can't replicate.

Despite the controversy, the Stepping Into Action program proved to be a lifeline for *John*. He realized that seeking help was essential for his well-being and that accessing these resources online was a practical solution, especially when local options were limited.

*John* concluded that it was the best decision he had ever made, acknowledging the importance of finding support—even online—to reclaim control over his life and break free from his dependency.

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