13-05-2025
Surge in women seeking addiction support in Dublin, says rehab service
The organisation, which provides drug and alcohol rehabilitation services across the capital, revealed that female presentations increased by 37pc in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period last year.
A total of 305 women accessed its services between January and March, up from 223 in 2024.
Coolmine said the rise reflects growing trust in its trauma-informed, family-focused services, particularly among vulnerable groups such as mothers and members of the Traveller community.
Cocaine remains the most commonly reported substance among those seeking treatment in Dublin, accounting for 35pc of all cases.
Alcohol followed at 29pc, with benzodiazepines noted as the most prevalent secondary drug, appearing in nearly a quarter of presentations.
All of Coolmine's community and residential services in Dublin operated at full capacity during the first quarter of the year, with a total of 756 people engaging in support programmes.
Speaking about the figures, Anita Harris, Deputy Head of Services at Coolmine, said: 'We're seeing more women seeking help, fewer missed appointments, and growing trust in our trauma-informed, family-based services.
'These figures show real progress, not just in engagement but in outcomes. We're proud of the trust our community places in us.
"Recovery is an ongoing process, and today's figures highlight the vital services Coolmine provides in Dublin.
'I encourage anyone facing addiction to reach out – support is available, and it's never too late to turn things around.
'Our clients are rebuilding relationships, improving their health, and finding positive pathways in work, training and education,' she added.
The charity also highlighted the success of its targeted supports for parents and families.
In the first three months of this year, 12 children stayed in residential care with their mothers through the Mother & Child Programme, while 100 families received tailored support via the Parents Under Pressure initiative.
Additionally, 48 members of the Traveller community were supported in accessing addiction services during the same period.
