Last week on International Opioid Awareness Day, I visited Soft Landing Recovery in Highland Park to talk about how we can build on our success with Lali's Law to save more lives.

The bottom line is that seeking help takes courage. Together in Lake County, we're working to put together well-rounded and compassionate options that make it easier for people struggling with addiction to get the help that they need.

While passing Lali's Law and the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act was a decisive step in the right direction, for people and families currently struggling with addiction, I know there is much more we can do to help.

There's no doubt that we need to increase resources, both federally and locally, to improve education, prevent overdoses and stem the flow of illegal drugs crossing the border.