Treating trauma behind drug addiction represents the “best bang for your buck” when tackling substance abuse, addiction counsellors have told Ireland’s Oireachtas Committee on Drugs.

James O’Shea, chair of Addiction Counsellors of Ireland, emphasised that whilst addiction proves difficult to treat, trauma can be addressed more successfully. “PTSD can be treated and cured, it’s the best bang for your buck,” he said.

The committee heard that evidence suggests between 60% and 80% of people with substance misuse disorders have experienced trauma in their past.

Treating trauma behind drug addiction should be prioritised

Mr O’Shea explained that trauma runs through families “like a fire” across whole generations. Historically, services stabilise addiction first before attempting to address trauma, but the “gold standard” internationally involves treating both simultaneously.

Sharon Lambert, senior lecturer in applied psychology at University College Cork, confirmed the strong link between past trauma and current substance misuse, with the majority of people struggling with addiction carrying unresolved traumatic experiences.

Laura O’Reilly, vice chair of Addiction Counsellors of Ireland, highlighted how people are often “bounced back and forward” between separate services, one for addiction and another for mental health, rather than receiving integrated care.

New programmes show promise

The Government launched the “Seeking Safety First” programme, piloted in 2024 and made permanent this year. The initiative targets women experiencing both mental health difficulties and addiction, particularly those affected by domestic and sexual violence.

Currently operating at seven sites, five in Dublin, Ms O’Reilly called for expanded resources to bring the programme to more parts of the country.

Mr O’Shea advocated for a “centralised-led” initiative to improve and expand trauma treatment across HSE and voluntary addiction services. He stressed the need to invest heavily in “protective” factors, particularly targeting vulnerable families and communities.

Ms O’Reilly described her work in a community drug service supporting pregnant women and pre-school families. The service examines parental issues, family factors and poverty that might expose children to risk, working with the family as a complete unit rather than isolated individuals.

Ms Lambert urged society to “reduce social inequality” and examine why so many young people aren’t participating in school. She suggested drug prevention in schools should form part of a broader wellbeing programme rather than standing alone.

The Oireachtas drugs committee was established to examine recommendations from the Citizens Assembly on Drug Use report, published in January 2024. Read more