Demand for addiction treatment rises by 35% as more people seek help, report shows

The organisation supported 3,293 people last year — a 35% increase on 2023

The number of people seeking help from drug and alcohol treatment services surged in 2024, according to a new report.

Coolmine Therapeutic Community, Ireland’s national drug and alcohol treatment centre, published its annual report on Tuesday, highlighting a sharp rise in demand for addiction services across the country.

The organisation supported 3,293 people last year — a 35% increase on 2023.

These included:

• 1,396 women — an 11% year-on-year rise, which Coolmine says reflects “reduced barriers to treatment such as stigma, childcare, and domestic violence.” 
• 326 families who accessed direct support, including counselling, parenting, and education services.
• 365 parents who completed the Parents Under Pressure (PuP) programme — a 28% increase on 2023.
• 52 children who entered women’s residential services with their mothers.

Pauline McKeown, chief executive of Coolmine Therapeutic Community, said the report shows Ireland is “witnessing an unprecedented rise" in people seeking help for addiction.

“This reflects both growing need and greater willingness to reach out for support,” she said.

"Last year alone, more than 3,000 people turned to Coolmine. Each one represents a story of courage and hope. Our mission is to ensure that every person, regardless of background, has access to compassionate, evidence-based treatment that helps them rebuild their lives.”

Ms McKeown continued: “Our staff, volunteers and partners are at the heart of this success. Their dedication ensures Coolmine can respond to growing demand with innovation, integrity and care. We remain steadfast in our belief that recovery is possible and that no one should have to face addiction alone."

Alcohol remains the most common substance for which people seek help, accounting for 35% of all presentations so far in 2025 — down slightly from 37% in 2024. Cocaine (32%), cannabis (11%), benzodiazepines (8%), and heroin (7.5%) followed.

Regional data shows alcohol dominates in the South-West (50%) and Mid-West (31%), while cocaine leads in the East (39%).

Coolmine achieved a 74% retention rate across residential services, with clients reporting significant improvements in health, housing, family relationships, and financial stability.

A total of 160 members of the Traveller community engaged with services in 2024 through “culturally sensitive" outreach and peer-led support.