Comment: Please reach out if you feel in need of help

Over the coming days, media organisations will start getting press releases about 'Blue Monday', the third Monday in January, designated so by a public relations company as the most depressing day of the year, and mostly jumped upon by the travel industry in an attempt to sell holidays. Of course, after the dismal few weeks weather we are after having, and a torrent of bad news both nationally and internationally, it hasn't been a cheerful start to 2025.

January is not an easy time for many, as highlighted by the Rutland Centre, Ireland’s leading provider of addiction treatment and recovery services, which is anticipating more than 3,500 calls for help following the challenging Christmas period. Last January, the centre received 3,100 calls, highlighting the growing need for addiction support in Ireland. This demand comes after the centre, based in Knocklyon in Dublin, operated at full capacity over Christmas, reflecting the ongoing and urgent need for its recovery services.

In response, The Rutland Centre has launched a six-week free new year campaign to provide support, guidance, and resources to individuals and families impacted by addiction. The programme works on a first come-first served basis. The new year programme is largely free of charge, runs until mid-February and offers a range of practical, person-centred supports including free addiction screening drop-in clinics, weekly sessions for individuals in addiction, providing direct access to experienced addiction professionals counsellors for guidance and validation; and family intervention and access sessions, weekly facilitated support sessions every Wednesday for family members to connect, share, and receive expert advice on how to encourage a loved one to seek and accept help. There are two dedicated workshops to help family members with tools and strategies to support loved ones in addiction, with a charge for this.

Maebh Mullany, CEO of the Rutland Centre, highlighted the significance of January as a time for reflection and action: “The festive season often exacerbates issues such as alcohol, drugs, gambling, and overeating, leaving individuals and families feeling overwhelmed. January is not just a time of reflection but also an opportunity for change. Our message is clear: you don’t have to face this alone. With our suite of supports, individuals and families can plant the seeds of recovery now and see the shoots of hope by spring.

Those struggling with addiction, or family members can contact (01) 494 6444, info@rutlandcentre.ie, or visit www.rutlandcentre.ie. Please reach out to such centres if you need help this January - you are never alone.