The Rutland Centre, a treatment facility situated in Knocklyon, south Dublin, has recently reported a significant spike in individuals dealing with multiple addictions seeking help, as revealed in their recent annual report. The proportion of individuals grappling with more than one addiction increased to 62% last year, a stark rise from the 48% reported in 2022.
Remarkably, the report reveals that one in five individuals were coping with three or more addictive behaviours or substances. Highlighting the serious issue, the report stressed the urgent requirement for more well-rounded and versatile treatment strategies.
In 2023, the Rutland Centre logged a record-breaking 5,213 overnight stays, the most ever recorded. Alcoholism remained the primary addiction being dealt with, accounting for roughly 65% of inpatient clients seeking help.
Mirroring the increase in cocaine use at national level reported by the Health Research Board, slightly more than 16% of the centre’s users turned to them for assistance with a cocaine addiction. Of these, nearly half designated cocaine as their secondary drug of choice. Developing a dedicated resource for dealing with cocaine addiction was identified as a “primary goal” by the Rutland Centre.
Additionally, one in five outpatient admissions at the centre were related to gambling addiction.
Maebh Mullany, CEO of the Rutland Centre, reported a growing complexity in the cases they handled over the past year, notably a surge in patients grappling with multiple addictions. She expressed eagerness to expand their service offers, including adding a detox facility and increasing outpatient programmes. She also noted their unique medallion ceremonies – honouring those who’ve reached sobriety landmarks – were resumed after the pandemic, demonstrating the deep impact of their extensive support schemes.