In this holiday-season conversation, Sylvie Légère sits down with Dr. Dan Lustig, President & CEO of Haymarket Center, and Heather Way Kitzes, Haymarket’s Vice President of Development & Strategic Expansion, to explore the realities of addiction: what it is, how it works, why it’s exploding in the U.S., and what families and communities can do. They discuss how addiction is intertwined with trauma, exploitation, mental health, and systemic barriers to care — and what evidence-based treatment looks like. The episode also addresses the stigma around rehab centers and offers grounded guidance for families who feel powerless watching loved ones struggle.

This is Part One of a two-part series on addiction. Part Two will spotlight recovery with The Phenix founder Scott Strode.

Key Topics Covered● What addiction actually is: clarification of terms● Why some people become addicted and others don’t● Substance use disorder as a mental health condition● The role of trauma, trafficking & exploitation in addiction● Why addiction has surged: potency, access, stress & isolation● How to evaluate quality rehab centers (and red flags to avoid)● What rehab centers bring to communities● What families can realistically do to support a loved one● The importance of open, honest conversations to reduce stigma● A preview of Part Two on recoveryKey Statistics (SAMHSA)● Nearly 50 million Americans have a past-year substance use disorder● Fewer than 1 in 5 receive treatment(Source: SAMHSA – the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, whichconducts the annual National Survey on Drug Use and Health)

Resources Mentioned

About Our Guests

Dr. Dan Lustig, Psy.D., CAADC, CODPIIPresident & CEO, Haymarket Center

A clinician, researcher, and behavioral health executive with over 20 years at Haymarket. Leads trauma-informed, evidence-based care and major federal initiatives (SAMHSA, CDC, ACF). Member of Illinois SUPR Advisory Council. Expert in co-occurring mental health & substance use disorders.

Heather Way KitzesVice President of Development & Strategic Expansion, Haymarket Center

A civic and nonprofit leader with nearly two decades building strong Chicago communities. Formerly with the Chicago Cubs and Lakeview Chamber of Commerce. Deep expertise in public-private partnerships, economic development, and community advocacy.

Addiction, the Brain, and the People We Love