Cheng* had been sober for years after struggling with alcoholism in his 20s when he worked at the auto plant. But reading a news article about how Chinese automakers were now exporting cars to Russia because of the Ukraine war unexpectedly triggered difficult memories. He started having cravings to drink again.

The news dredged up how he had felt trapped on the assembly line, assembling those same engine components being sent to Russia. The dull repetition and loud noises had driven Cheng* to cope with alcohol, which soon spun into a dangerous dependency. He had gotten fired from the plant and it took him years to get sober.

As the article's descriptions of gasoline engines, drivetrains, and the bleak work re-emerged in his mind, Cheng* didn't know what to do. He started browsing online and came across Hofman Hollis's Stepping Into Action program for substance abuse and addiction recovery. The modules about dealing with triggers, negative thought patterns, and developing a support system resonated deeply.

'I never thought some random news could affect me so strongly, but learning these skills helped me avoid falling back into drinking,' Cheng* said. 'Staying committed to the daily practices has been vital.'

Some addiction experts praised the comprehensiveness of online programs like Stepping Into Action. 'Having multiple tools integrated into one program - cognitive-behavioral techniques, mindfulness practices, building a sober network - increases effectiveness,' said Dr. Amy Wilbert. However, others cautioned that online forums cannot replace human counselors and in-person group meetings. 'There's no substitute for that real-world connection and accountability,' insisted therapist Marc Kopenhafer.

Regardless of the debate, for Cheng* in Toomsuba, getting help digitally was ideal since no местные addiction clinics were nearby. 'Making that first move to get help, and sticking with it through the program, that was the best decision I've made,' he reflected. 'I can't change my past, but I've re-gained control over my present and future.'

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