Confronting the Silent Epidemic: A Personal Journey Through Addiction and Recovery

Grief can reshape lives in unimaginable ways, creating an ever-present void for some and igniting a fierce determination in others. One such story comes from Adelina Olivares, a dedicated program director at Behavioral Health Solutions of South Texas, who transformed her profound loss into a mission to combat addiction and support recovery.

A Heartbreaking Loss

Two years ago, Adelina lost her 20-year-old nephew to a fentanyl-related overdose. This tragedy became the catalyst for her unwavering commitment to helping others navigate the treacherous waters of substance abuse. Now, she channels her pain into motivation, striving to change the narrative surrounding addiction.

The Fight Against Overdose: International Awareness Day

As we approach International Overdose Awareness Day on August 31st, Olivares emphasizes the importance of community support. “This day holds immense significance for me,” she says. “It’s a time to publicly remember our loved ones and ensure their deaths are not in vain.” Her words resonate deeply, reminding us that we are not alone in our struggles.

Key Goals of International Overdose Awareness Day

• Reduce stigma associated with drug-related deaths
• Promote the importance of support services for those affected by addiction
• Create awareness about the growing epidemic of overdose deaths

The Growing Overdose Crisis

Recent statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reveal a troubling increase in overdose deaths. Between 2023 and 2024, fatalities linked to synthetic opioids surged from 74,702 to 76,226. Natural or semi-synthetic opioids also saw a rise, highlighting the urgent need for intervention.

Contributing Factors to the Crisis

• Increased availability of fentanyl and other synthetic opioids
• Impurity of narcotics leading to higher addiction rates
• Shifts in drug use trends towards more dangerous substances

Comprehensive Community Support

At Behavioral Health Solutions, Olivares leads programs designed to meet the diverse needs of individuals struggling with addiction. With 24 different recovery initiatives, the facility offers a holistic approach that includes:

1. Intervention and prevention strategies
2. Treatment options tailored to individual needs
3. Peer recovery coaching from those with lived experience

These efforts aim to foster trust and create a comfortable environment for participants, many of whom are referred through probation or parole programs. Olivares notes, “It’s not just a job for us; it’s a passion.”

Harm Reduction Strategies

In an effort to save lives, the facility provides Naloxone, a medication that can reverse opioid overdoses, as part of their harm reduction approach. Olivares believes that creating a safe space for substance users, despite criticism from some who view it as enabling, ultimately helps prevent overdose deaths.

Looking Ahead: Expanding Reach and Resources

Behavioral Health Solutions is dedicated to expanding its outreach and services, now offering virtual support to reach individuals in rural areas. They are also hosting a "Celebrating Recovery" event on September 27th, inviting the community to hear testimonies from those who have successfully navigated their recovery journeys.

For more information about their programs, visit bhsst.org or call (956) 787-7111 to speak with an intake specialist.

What Do You Think?

• Should harm reduction strategies be more widely accepted in communities battling addiction?
• Is the increase in overdose deaths a failure of public health policy?
• How can we better support families affected by addiction?
• What role does stigma play in preventing individuals from seeking help?

Your thoughts and comments are valuable in this ongoing conversation about addiction, recovery, and community support. Let’s engage and work towards a solution together!