There has been a significant rise in people presenting with addictions to cocaine or gambling, as well as cases of multiple addiction, according to a treatment centre in Dublin.
In its 2023 annual report, the Rutland Centre recorded “a dramatic surge” in the number of people seeking treatment for multiple addictions.
“62% of individuals now presenting with multiple addictions, a significant increase from 48% in 2022,” the report said.
“Notably, there has been a sharp rise in poly-addiction cases, with 20% of individuals struggling with three or more substances or behaviours.”
The report called for more “comprehensive and multifaceted” treatment for these cases and said the findings show an “alarming trend”.
It also found that around 16% of its service users sought treatment for cocaine addiction, which it said reflected the figures reported by the Health Research Board (HRB).
Earlier this year, the HRB reported that the use of powder cocaine increased by 197% between 2017 and 2023 and crack cocaine increased by 594%.
The HRB found that cocaine was the most common main drug among new cases in 2023, accounting for almost half (46%) of new cases.
In 2023, 4,923 cases were recorded with cocaine as a main problem, according to the HRB.
The Rutland Centre said that establishing a dedicated resource for cocaine addiction is “a key objective” for it.
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Meanwhile, 20% of the Rutland Centre’s outpatient admissions were for gambling addiction.
It said it plans to introduce a gambling-specific outpatient program to address “this growing need”.
However, alcohol remains the predominant addiction at the Rutland Centre.
According to its annual report, 65% of in-patient clients sought help for alcohol addiction last year.
Plans for further expansion
The centre said the findings underscored “the critical need for targeted interventions and support for individuals struggling with alcohol dependence”.
It also reported advances it made in 2023, including a 93% completion rate for its residential programme and an 83% completion rate for its outpatient programme.
The CEO of the Rutland Centre, Maebh Mullany, said it plans to further expand the services it offers, including opening a detox facility and expanded outpatient programmes.
“In 2023, we continued to see a rise in the complexity of addiction cases, with many individuals presenting with multiple addictions.
“Our unique medallion ceremonies, honouring those who have achieved recovery milestones and commitment to sobriety, were reinstated post-pandemic and really showcase the profound impact of our comprehensive support programs,” she said.
She said that if the centre had more funding and capacity, it would be able to help more people as there is an urgent need.
Speaking on RTÉ’s Morning Ireland, Ms Mullany said: “We answer almost 16,000 calls a year, and at this point in 2024 I think we are on track to surpass the 2023 levels.
“Addiction is very prevalent, it’s across all communities all over the country.”
