CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — Every year on Aug. 31, advocates work to bring awareness to a disease you often can’t see.

International Overdose Awareness Day shines a spotlight on the overdose crisis affecting the nation. In 2024, the alarming statistic revealed that a person succumbed to an overdose every hour.

Though the death rate has decreased from 2023, when someone died approximately every five minutes, advocates emphasize that further action is necessary. In response, a treatment clinic in Champaign is focusing on removing the stigma surrounding addiction.

“There are so many individuals out there suffering, and by fostering education and compassion, we can view those individuals as just like us. This perspective can make a significant difference,” stated Laura White, the director of the MedMark Treatment Center.

White believes that adopting a more empathetic approach will support others in their journey to recovery. She also mentioned that International Overdose Awareness Day serves as a prelude to National Recovery Month, commencing on September 1.