CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) - The opioid epidemic continues to be an issue across the U.S. and it's still taking the lives of many people. The opioid epidemic has been on the rise across the globe and the FCC says it claims more than 187 lives per day. 22News got a chance to learn about the resources that one center has for those who need help. "I think at this point and time everyone is pretty aware that the opioid epidemic has permeated through communities," says Shannon Hicks with the Center for Human Development. The opioid epidemic has been ravaging families across the U.S. for decades, leaving them without some of their loved ones. According to the World Health Organization, opioids are commonly used to treat pain, and it can include morphine, fentanyl, tramadol and the list goes on. But it's the misuse of these drugs that leads to opioid dependence which can bring on other health issues and even result in death. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reports that more than 760,000 people have died since 1999 from a drug overdose. Hicks says the center has been providing more resources for those struggling with opioid disorder. They have primary care, prescribers for opioid and substance use disorder, nurses, recovery coaches, and clinicians. She told 22News that they have improved with offering immediate resources but if other agencies have a waitlist. She says that should not stop people from getting the treatment they need to recover, "Many agencies have access to walk in services where you can come in the door there is medication, treatment and pair support available. The training around treatment for opioid disorder has really grown." Local News Headlines Israeli strike kills Hezbollah leader, escalating conflict State lawmaker on prison attack: “they must be held accountable at all costs” Opioid epidemic still rising, 187 lives lost daily State leaders meet to discuss mental health resources for veterans WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.