Increase in Women Seeking Drug and Alcohol Treatment by 10%

There was a 10% increase in the number of women seeking treatment for drug and alcohol addiction in the first quarter of this year, compared to the same period in 2024. The figure is from Coolmine Therapeutic Communities (CTC) in Dublin, which treated 1,394 people in the year to April. Alcohol remains the main substance that people seek treatment for, with cocaine following close behind. The drug surpasses alcohol in a number of regions, including Dublin.

One of those who sought treatment at Coolmine for substance addiction is Anna Hanbury, a mother of two who has been in recovery for almost two and a half years. She shared her journey of falling into addiction and the challenges she faced. The Department of Health reported almost 5,300 cases of treatment for cocaine use in 2024, up from just under 3,800 in 2017.

However, Anna highlighted the societal perception differences between men and women regarding drug use. She emphasized the stigma around mothers in addiction and the fear of losing custody of their children. Despite these challenges, Anna's story of recovery and regaining custody of her children provides hope and inspiration.

Some 40% of CTC service users identify alcohol as their substance of addiction, with cocaine at 30%. Deputy Head of Services Anita Harris expressed concerns about the normalization of drug use, particularly cocaine, across various demographics. She emphasized the destructive impact of cocaine addiction on individuals and society.

The Department of Health allocated funding to address drug-related harm among women with complex needs and to combat cocaine and 'crack' cocaine use. Aodhan McAuley, a father of two, shared his journey of addiction and recovery, highlighting the role of his children in inspiring him to seek treatment and maintain sobriety.

According to the source: RTE.ie.