Alcohol is the biggest reason for addiction treatment in north west



A new report shows that Alcohol is the biggest reason for people in the north west receiving addiction treatment and counselling.

The report delivered to members of the Leitrim Joint Policing Committee yesterday says 1082 people were referred for addiction treatment in 2014.

 

The report from the Northwest Regional Drug and Alcohol task force presented the number of cases assessed or treated for problem alcohol or drug use and residing in the north west.

It shows 608 of those referred for alcohol and drug treatment were from Donegal.

297 came from Sligo with 105 in county Leitrim.

Alcohol is the most likely reason for referral with 767 people in the north west receiving treatment.

A further 243 were referred for drug abuse, 10 for gambling and 62 people were referred by a concerned person or family member.

Sean O’Connor regional drug and alcohol task force co-ordinator told Ocean FM the availability of alcohol compared to drugs can have an impact.

A large number of those in the north west receiving treatment are in the 20-40 age bracket.

473 people in that age group were referred for alcohol and drug treatment in Donegal, Sligo and Leitrim.

The age profile of those receiving treatment in the north west is a stark reminder of the pressure that younger people can feel upon entering the working world according to Sean O’Connor.

 



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