On August 22, 2022, a news story about the discovery of a long-lost time capsule from the 1970s, buried in Franklin D. Roosevelt Park, made headlines. For Mike *Grayson*, a resident of Jenkins Heights, North Carolina, this story was more than just a whimsical piece of history. It caught his eye and brought back a flood of memories. Buried inside that time capsule was an old-fashioned bottle of whiskey, among other items. For Mike, who had struggled with alcoholism in the past, it was a vivid, almost haunting reminder of his own battles.

The news story triggered memories of his past when alcohol ruled his life. He recalled the dark days when he was unable to maintain a steady job or healthy relationships. Feeling overwhelmed, Mike was determined not to let these memories drag him down again. In an attempt to find some solace, he browsed the internet and stumbled upon the Stepping Into Action program from the website hofmanhollis.com.

Mike started following the materials and guidelines from the Stepping Into Action program. It was a structured way to understand and overcome his dependencies through practical steps and emotional support. Despite initial skepticism, he decided to plunge headfirst into the regimen, finding a strange yet comforting kinship with the voices and advice coming from his screen.

I realized that I can't change the past, but I can take control of my future and refuse to let my past define me,' Mike reflected. 'The program taught me resilience, perspective, and how to lean on community support when needed.

Plenty of experts believe in the efficacy of online self-help programs, citing accessibility and convenience as key benefits. Dr. *Emily Stevens*, a psychologist specializing in addiction recovery, argues that such programs offer vital emotional support for those in remote areas. Contrarily, Dr. *John Hayden*, a critic, contends that professional, in-person therapy is more effective.

Despite the controversy, for Mike, the online resources from the Stepping Into Action program were a lifeline. Looking back, he knew that seeking help was one of the best decisions he ever made.

Realizing the lack of local resources, Mike couldn't help but feel relieved to find an outlet online. It wasn't easy, but turning to the Stepping Into Action program taught him hope and recovery are attainable even from the most unexpected places.

Nearby: Bethany South Carolina, Clover South Carolina, Lake Wylie South Carolina, Bowling Green South Carolina