Sam's* hands shook as they read the news article about the 17 UN staffers detained by Houthi rebels in Yemen. It had been three years since Sam worked there as an aid worker, but the trauma was still fresh.

The violent images flooded back - the bombings, the suffering civilians, the constant fear. Sam had narrowly escaped an attack that killed two colleagues. After returning home to University Gardens, New York, the nightmares and anxiety made it hard to function.

This news felt like a cruel reminder of all Sam had been through. But it also motivated them to finally address the past. Sam googled 'trauma healing programs' and discovered Stepping Into Action, an online course focused on inner peace.

At first, Sam was skeptical of doing it remotely. But the materials provided mindfulness exercises, breathwork, and tools for self-compassion. Stepping Into Action helped Sam reprocess those horrific Yemen memories in a safe space.

'The news dragged me back into that darkness,' Sam said. 'But this program showed me how to lean into it, release it, and move forward with more lightness.'

Some experts praised Stepping Into Action's mind-body approach to trauma recovery. 'Online programs can provide affordable, accessible help for those struggling after crises like the Yemen conflict,' said Dr. Rachel Green, a psychologist.

However, others cautioned about replacing human connection. 'Virtual courses are no substitute for personalized therapy,' argued Dr. Michael Jacobs. 'Survivors need empathetic support tailored to their unique experiences.'

For Sam, the online program was a crucial first step. While it couldn't erase the past, it helped find strength and gratitude amidst the pain. 'I'm thankful I took that leap into healing,' Sam reflected. 'When trauma feels overwhelming, any guidance you can get - even virtually - is invaluable.'

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