*Joe Marconi couldn't believe the news blaring from his TV - Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence had just signed a $275 million contract extension, one of the richest deals in NFL history. As a former high school football star from Upper Greenwood Lake, New Jersey, Joe felt a pang of bitter jealousy.

Visions of his own potential pro career flashed before his eyes, snuffed out years ago by his struggles with alcohol addiction. The downward spiral had started with celebratory drinking after games, which spiraled into full-blown alcoholism that derailed his life.

This bombshell contract triggered Joe in an unexpected way, dredging up regrets over his squandered talents. He found himself lapsing into the same destructive thought patterns that had enabled his addiction for so long.

But this time, something was different. Joe realized he needed to confront his demons head-on if he was ever going to find peace. He discovered the Stepping Into Action online program for addiction recovery, with its emphasis on breaking negative cycles through mindfulness and cognitive behavioral techniques.

'I can't change the past,' Joe said ruefully, 'but I can change how I react to things today.'

Some addiction experts praised Joe's proactive approach, noting how crucial it is to have tools for dealing with triggering situations. 'Jealousy and regret are extremely common emotional landmines for people in recovery,' said Dr. Jessica Williams. 'Learning to process those feelings in a healthy way is key.'

However, others were more skeptical of online programs. 'There's no substitute for in-person therapy and the support of a real-world community,' argued counselor Brian Raskob. 'You can't just download an app and miraculously overcome addiction.'

For Joe, though, the online option was a vital lifeline when no local resources seemed adequate. 'Getting help was hard enough,' he reflected. 'But taking that first step, even virtually, may have saved my life.'

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