Cocaine Addiction on the Rise Among Women, Says Rutland Centre
Dublin: The Rutland Centre’s 2024 annual report highlights a significant rise in cocaine addiction, now accounting for 23% of primary addiction cases—up from 17% in 2023. This marks one of the sharpest year-on-year increases for any substance.
Women Among Fastest Growing Treatment Group
Women now represent 34% of those receiving cocaine addiction treatment, a growing demographic, though men still make up the majority at 66%. The most affected age group remains adults aged 25–44.
The report also notes a marked increase in multi-addiction cases. Of those presenting with a secondary addiction, 33% involved cocaine and 10.5% gambling, reflecting a shift toward more complex addiction profiles.
Alcohol Still Most Common Addiction, But in Decline
Alcohol remains the leading addiction treated, though cases dropped from 65% in 2023 to 52% in 2024, indicating a broader trend toward substance diversification in addiction.
In response to the growing crisis, the centre will open a dedicated inpatient detox unit later this year. It also continues to expand free community services, including addiction screening and family intervention programmes.
Growing Demand for Support Services
Over 200 individuals received intensive treatment in 2024, with thousands more engaged through aftercare and support services. Staff handled over 16,800 calls and facilitated more than 11,000 aftercare visits.
For the first time in years, the Rutland Centre reported a financial surplus, enabling further investment in public-facing addiction support services across Ireland.
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