Alcohol treatment cases that addressed problem drinking reached over 8,000 in the year 2024, according to research.
In Ireland, the latest report shows a significant increase in the number of cases treated for problem alcohol use, marking a decade high with 8,745 cases in 2024 [1]. This surge in demand for alcohol-related treatment indicates a growing population seeking help.
One notable trend emerging from these cases is the rise in polydrug use, with nearly one in three alcohol treatment cases also having a problem with other substances [1]. This trend is particularly evident in the increased use of cocaine and cannabis among alcohol treatment clients.
According to the Health Research Board (HRB), cocaine was the most common additional drug used alongside alcohol, accounting for 71% of cases in 2024 [1]. This represents a significant increase from 42% in 2017 [1]. Similarly, cannabis was reported by 49% of cases in 2024 [1], a figure that may also have seen an upward trend over the years.
The Rutland Centre has reported a surge in complex, multi-addiction cases, suggesting a growing number of individuals struggling with both alcohol and other drugs [2]. This trend underscores the need for comprehensive treatment strategies that address the complex interplay between substances.
It is important to note that both men and women in alcohol treatment cases drink more in a typical day than is recommended in a week [1]. This highlights the severity of the issue and the need for effective interventions.
Children are often the invisible victims of alcohol harm, according to Alcohol Action Ireland [3]. The organisation has reiterated its call for the implementation of Operation Encompass, an early information sharing partnership between gardaí and schools in instances of domestic violence.
The decrease in alcohol-dependent treatment cases from 72% in 2017 to 56% in 2024 is a positive development, according to Senior HRB Researcher Dr Suzi Lyons [1]. She stated that more people are accessing treatment before they become alcohol dependent, leading to better recovery and outcomes.
However, the available data does not provide detailed information on the increase of polydrug use among alcohol treatment cases in Ireland from 2017 to 2024, nor does it focus specifically on the involvement of cocaine and cannabis within this population. Further reports from the HRB or other Irish health institutions covering substance use patterns, specifically polydrug use (alcohol combined with cocaine and cannabis) in treatment cases over recent years, would be necessary to gain a clearer understanding of these trends.
References: [1] Health Research Board (HRB). (2025). Latest Report Shows Highest Number of Alcohol Treatment Cases in Ireland in Over a Decade. Retrieved from HRB Website [2] Rutland Centre. (2025). Surge in Complex, Multi-Addiction Cases. Retrieved from Rutland Centre Website [3] Alcohol Action Ireland. (2025). Children are the Invisible Victims of Alcohol Harm. Retrieved from Alcohol Action Ireland Website
Mental health professionals must pay close attention to the rising polydrug use cases involving both alcohol and other substances like cocaine and cannabis among individuals seeking treatment, given the significant increase in such cases over the years. Additionally, health and wellness advocates should consider mental health as a crucial aspect during rehabilitation programs for individuals struggling with alcohol and drug addiction, as the issue extends beyond physiological dependence.
