San Bernardino County is facing a public health emergency — and it’s killing our neighbors, friends, and family members at an alarming rate. Over the past several years, the rise of fentanyl-related overdoses has devastated communities across the Inland Empire and High Desert. What was once considered a crisis is now an epidemic, particularly affecting younger adults, teens, and working families.

But while the numbers are stark, there is hope — and it’s closer than many realize. Advanced Therapeutic Services (ATS) in Barstow offers a compassionate, community-based response to the opioid crisis through dual diagnosis outpatient treatment. As the toll of fentanyl continues to grow, accessible and integrated care like that provided at ATS has never been more critical.

Fentanyl’s Deadly Grip on San Bernardino County

San Bernardino County has seen a dramatic spike in overdose deaths, driven largely by fentanyl — a synthetic opioid up to 50 times stronger than heroin. According to the San Bernardino County Indicators Report, drug-induced deaths increased 49% between 2019 and 2021. Fentanyl was the leading cause.

Other data from the San Bernardino County Medical Society and San Bernardino County Fire confirm the urgency:

  • Fentanyl-related deaths tripled in just two years

  • Young adults (ages 18–35) are among the most impacted

  • Pills disguised as prescription medications (like Percocet or Xanax) often contain lethal fentanyl

  • Emergency responders are using Narcan (naloxone) daily to reverse overdoses — often more than once per victim

Many overdoses are accidental. Victims had no idea they were ingesting fentanyl. Others were struggling silently with mental health conditions and using substances to self-medicate.

That’s why it’s time to treat this crisis at the root — not just with emergency care, but with long-term, mental health-centered recovery.

The Hidden Connection: Mental Health and Opioid Use

The fentanyl epidemic is more than just a drug problem — it’s a mental health problem.

Many people who misuse opioids are also struggling with:

  • Depression or suicidal thoughts

  • Anxiety and panic disorders

  • Unresolved trauma or PTSD

  • Stress from poverty, isolation, or violence

  • Lack of access to proper therapy or psychiatric care

These co-occurring conditions often go untreated, especially in underserved communities. When someone lacks tools for emotional regulation or has no safe place to talk, drugs like fentanyl become a dangerous escape.

This is why dual diagnosis care is essential. Treating addiction without addressing the underlying mental health issue often leads to relapse. ATS Barstow is one of the few outpatient programs in the High Desert specifically built to address both sides of the crisis.

What Is Dual Diagnosis Treatment?

Dual diagnosis (also known as co-occurring disorders treatment) refers to care for individuals who face both:

  • A substance use disorder (such as fentanyl, heroin, alcohol, or prescription drug addiction), and

  • A mental health disorder (such as depression, anxiety, trauma, or bipolar disorder)

At ATS Barstow, clients don’t have to separate their care — it’s all integrated in one personalized, outpatient treatment plan.

ATS Barstow: Local Help, Real Hope

As San Bernardino County grapples with fentanyl, ATS Barstow stands as a reliable, local resource for those ready to reclaim their lives.

Here’s what sets us apart:

✅ Evidence-Based Dual Diagnosis Treatment

We use proven clinical models like CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), DBT, trauma-informed care, and relapse prevention to help clients address addiction and mental health simultaneously.

✅ Outpatient Flexibility

Our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) allows clients to receive robust care while continuing work, school, or family obligations. Sessions are available day or evening.

✅ Experienced & Compassionate Staff

Our licensed therapists, counselors, and psychiatric team bring years of experience in addiction recovery and mental health treatment.

✅ Confidential & Community-Based

We understand the unique challenges of living in a smaller city like Barstow. Our setting is professional, private, and always judgment-free.

What We Treat at ATS Barstow

  • Opioid & Fentanyl Addiction

  • Alcohol & Drug Abuse

  • Anxiety & Panic Disorders

  • Depression & Mood Instability

  • Trauma & PTSD

  • Bipolar Disorder

  • Family Impact & Support Needs

Every client receives an individualized treatment plan with a mix of:

  • Individual therapy

  • Group therapy

  • Medication management (if needed)

  • Family sessions

  • Crisis prevention and relapse planning

The High Desert Needs More Than Emergency Response

San Bernardino County Fire and paramedics now carry multiple doses of Narcan to respond to repeat overdose calls. While their efforts are life-saving, emergency response alone isn’t a solution — it’s a stopgap.

We need community-based programs that:

  • Educate families on the signs of fentanyl use

  • Provide early intervention for teens and adults

  • Offer mental health counseling alongside addiction care

  • Make recovery accessible — not overwhelming

That’s the role ATS Barstow proudly plays. We’re here after the overdose, before crisis hits, and during the long, meaningful journey of healing.

Who Should Call ATS Barstow?

  • Parents of teens experimenting with pills or struggling with depression

  • Adults using opioids to cope with anxiety, trauma, or stress

  • People recently hospitalized for overdose or detox

  • Individuals who’ve tried rehab before but haven’t addressed mental health

  • Families looking for support and education, not just treatment

We offer free, confidential consultations and walk each client through the intake process step-by-step. Most insurance is accepted, and payment plans are available.

Serving San Bernardino County with Heart

While our office is based in Barstow, we serve surrounding communities across San Bernardino County, including:

  • Victorville

  • Apple Valley

  • Hesperia

  • Adelanto

  • Lucerne Valley

  • Yermo & Newberry Springs

Recovery shouldn’t require a long drive or a big-city clinic. With ATS Barstow, high-quality care is just around the corner.

Take Action Before It’s Too Late

If someone you love is showing signs of opioid misuse, fentanyl exposure, or mental health distress — don’t wait. The sooner treatment begins, the better the chance of survival, healing, and long-term recovery.