The number of people treated for problem alcohol use last year increased by 8 percent.
The latest data has been released by the Health Research Board.
7,421 people here were treated for problem alcohol use last year.
The average age cases first began drinking was 16, while the average age of those in treatment was 47.
Almost half of cases were unemployed. While one in 13 cases was recorded as homeless.
Meanwhile problem use of more than one substance was reported by 25% of cases, with cocaine being the most common additional drug used alongside alcohol.
