Over the last 15 years there has been a doubling in the number of middle aged and young people admitted into hospital for alcohol and drug related problems. Professor Frank Murray, the chairman of the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland Policy Group on Alcohol, urges the need to recognise this growing disease. 1 in 25 people die from alcohol at present and a growing number are hospitalised with liver disease. This does not have to continue.

At RedChair, we believe that intervention should be made earlier rather than later. If a person is showing signs of alcoholism or addiction then it is the family and friends duty to question this behaviour in its early stages. Challenging loved ones is a very sensitive issue and is more successful with guidance from addictions specialists. Often the person abusing substances cannot see their behaviour as a problem until loved ones, employers or associates confront them in an educated way.

Early intervention, working with people surrounding alcohol and drug users, is most effective in tackling the problems Professor Murray urges.