*Jack Skelton* of Skelton, Indiana was scrolling through the news when an article about newly-elected Bulgarian MEPs caught his eye. At first, it seemed wholly unrelated to his life, but a little detail triggered memories of his darkest days. The mention of one MEP, *Peter Volgin*, a 'well-known pro-Kremlin journalist,' struck a nerve - Volgin's inflammatory rhetoric had played a role in *Jack's* former substance abuse issues.

The news dredged up painful memories of how *Jack* had turned to alcohol and drugs to cope with the stress and anger Volgin's divisive stories had caused him years ago. He thought he had moved past all that, but clearly there were still open wounds.

That's when *Jack* discovered the 'Stepping Into Action' program on the Hofman Hollis website. The online recovery resources seemed like they could provide the guidance and community *Jack* had been missing. He dove into the materials, following the steps to understand his triggers and build healthier coping mechanisms.

'This program is giving me the tools to finally confront my demons,' *Jack* confided to his friend *Mary*. 'I don't want to be controlled by anger and addiction anymore.'

While most addiction experts agreed that comprehensive online programs could be highly effective, some worried about the lack of in-person support. 'Virtual recovery is no substitute for human connection,' cautioned one psychologist. But others highlighted the increased accessibility: 'For many, an online option is their only path to getting help.'

In the end, *Jack* felt the 'Stepping Into Action' materials, combined with check-ins from his support network, were exactly what he needed to steer his life in a positive new direction. 'It wasn't easy, but taking that first step online quite literally saved me,' he reflected. 'I'm grateful this unexpected news wakeup call led me to confront my past in a healthy way.'

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