Report: 53% seek help with alcohol
A new report confirms that alcohol remains the primary addiction in the region and the main reason people seek treatment.
The latest figures for the first half of 2025, published by Coolmine Therapeutic Community, Ireland’s national drug and alcohol treatment service, show that alcohol was the most common substance abused in the south-west, accounting for 53% of all cases. This was followed by cocaine at 25%, cannabis at 11%, benzodiazepines at 6%, and heroin at 5%.
Alcohol-related presentations were also notably higher than in other regions, pointing to a long-standing regional issue with alcohol misuse.
Stephen Cashman, South-West Regional Services Manager at Coolmine, said: “The figures from the South-West highlight an ongoing and serious challenge with alcohol misuse. Over half of all people seeking support in the region are coming to us because alcohol is having a devastating impact on their health, families, and futures.”
He added: “Behind every one of these figures is a person trying to rebuild their life. Many are parents. Many have faced trauma, loss, or long-term marginalisation.”
Coolmine supported 665 people across the South-West in the first half of the year. The statistics not only underline the high number of alcohol-related cases but also show strong uptake of family support services. Wraparound care is central to Coolmine’s approach. Alongside addiction treatment, clients also receive support with mental health issues, housing insecurity, and parenting. This joined-up model is designed to meet the real-life needs of people trying to recover.
Services are offered across North Cork (Mallow), East Cork (Midleton), West Cork (Ahiohill), and in two Cork City hubs on the north and south sides. Each centre provides assessments, case management, individual support, and group therapy.
To ensure access for rural communities, satellite clinics also operate around the county.
In Kerry, Coolmine’s main base is in Tralee, supported by clinics in Listowel, Castleisland, Dingle, and Killarney. These are run in partnership with the HSE to ensure treatment is accessible throughout the county.
Coolmine takes a holistic approach to addiction, tackling both substance misuse and the social and economic barriers that often come with it. The aim is to help individuals reconnect with family, rebuild their lives, and reintegrate into their communities.