However, the news also triggered Sarah emotionally. It brought back memories of losing her brother to an overdose, a past wound that had never fully healed. It made her realize how desperate she had become for change and how crucial it was to seek help.

Feeling inspired, Sarah decided to follow the materials from the Stepping Into Action program at Hofman Hollis. She found the structure and guidance it offered to be invaluable, setting clear, achievable goals that helped her stay on track.

'The first step is admitting you have a problem,' Sarah recalled from the program. 'But the most important step is believing you can overcome it.'

Experts have long debated the best methods for substance abuse treatment. While some advocate for traditional in-person therapy, others argue that online programs can provide flexible and equally effective support. The Stepping Into Action program combines both, recognizing that recovery is a personal journey that benefits from multiple approaches.

Not everyone agrees, however. Some critics argue that online programs lack the immediate, hands-on support that face-to-face meetings can offer. They believe that the absence of a physical community may hinder the recovery process.

In the end, Sarah learned that taking the step to seek help was the most significant decision she had ever made. The flexibility of an online program was a lifeline in a place where local resources were scarce. 'Finding help was difficult, but doing it online made it possible,' she reflected with gratitude.

* Sarah Johnson is a fictional character created for this short story.

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* Names and situations are fictional and not intended to resemble anyone in particular. They are illustrative of how the services can apply to the lives of every day people living ordinary lives.