Circles of San Antonio Community Coalition

08/14/2026

Understanding trends helps strengthen prevention and treatment efforts 📊 In 2025, overall ni****ne va**ng increased, while underage ni****ne va**ng (ages 12-20) decreased.

More insights in the 2025 : samhsa.gov/nsduh

08/11/2026

When someone you know is struggling with a mental health crisis or having thoughts of su***de, what you say – and how you say it – can make all the difference. Use the examples below to show support, foster connection, and remind them they are not alone.

Tips for Helpful Conversations
• Be present. Offer your full attention without judgment. Let them speak at their own pace.
• Listen actively. Use nonverbal cues like nodding and repeat back what you hear to show you understand.
• Avoid offering quick fixes. Instead, validate their feelings and let them express what they need.
• Be patient. Healing takes time. Showing up and checking in often builds trust and safety.
• Know that resources are available. You’re not alone in supporting your loved one. If you’re worried they are in a mental health crisis or contemplating su***de, contact the 988 Su***de & Crisis Lifeline. Other resources, like 2-1-1, can provide nonemergency support for
housing, food or ongoing mental health counseling. https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/mental-health-substance-use/mental-health-crisis-services/su***de-prevention

08/06/2026

Reducing the stigma of substance use requires shifting public perception to view addiction as a treatable medical condition rather than a moral failing. Actionable steps include using person-first, non-stigmatizing language, sharing stories of recovery, educating communities, and supporting evidence-based healthcare interventions.-NIH

SACADA offers tips on how to talk about substance use disorders and learn about other direct actions you can take to reduce stigma to support recovery.

Addiction treatments are safe, effective — and rarely offered to patients. That's because many doctors and nurses still view people with alcohol or drug addiction with suspicion and hostility.

08/05/2026

During our joint Coalition meeting with Region 8 Regional Alliance meeting Betsy Jones provided a presentation on local data collected on high risk access and high risk products local data can push the strategy work.

08/05/2026

The Collaborative Commission on Domestic Violence is now accepting abstract submissions for our 7th Annual Domestic Violence Awareness Symposium.

This year's theme, "The Violence We Inherit: Breaking Generational Cycles of Trauma," invites those with lived experiences, professionals, advocates, researchers, educators, and community leaders to explore the lasting impacts of violence and the pathways toward healing, prevention, and resilience.

Join us in creating meaningful conversations that inspire change and elevate the voices of those working to break cycles of violence across generations. You can find the link in our bio to submit.

📅 Symposium Date: Thursday, October 8, 2026
📍 UTSA Downtown Campus - 501 W César E Chávez Blvd, San Antonio, TX 78207
⏰ 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Call for Abstracts Deadline: August 31, 2026
Find the link in our bio to submit your abstract!

07/28/2026

Another great Institute by TX for Safe & Drug-Free Youth

07/28/2026

Coalition staff from San Antonio Council on Alcohol and Drug Awareness and Hill Country Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse attended the
Texans for Safe and Drug-Free Youth Institute on Youth Access & Impaired Driving today. Sessions included What's really in stores: Cannabis Products, Policy Gaps, and Implications for Youth Access and Mapping the Landscape: Understanding Outlet Density and It's Impact on Access and Impaired Driving Risk. Find out more information at www.txsdy.org

07/23/2026

07/16/2026

Thank you to Raquel with American Heart Association San Antonio for presenting at the Breathe Clear Coalition meeting today.