Victoria McCann BA, MSc

Communications Director & Editorial Lead

Victoria McCann, BA, MSc, is Communications Director & Editorial Lead at Castle Craig and a member of the clinic’s founding family. With over a decade of experience in addiction treatment communications, she leads the creation of clear, compassionate content that supports patients, families, and healthcare professionals. Victoria is committed to reducing stigma around addiction and mental health, and brings strategic insight and lived sector knowledge to her work. She regularly attends and organises addiction treatment conferences across the UK and Europe, promoting high standards of care and best practice in the field. Victoria also works with the media to raise awareness and share informed perspectives on addiction and recovery. The Herald, The Times, BBC, STV, New York Post, The Guardian.

smarmore castle alcohol and drug rehab clinic in the sunlight

Experience Smarmore Castle – Addiction Rehab in Ireland

A Place to Recover, Reconnect and Rebuild Whether you’ve found this page looking for help for yourself or for someone you love, you’re in the right place. We know the decision to seek help isn’t easy, but at Smarmore Castle, you’ll find a safe and supportive environment, expert care, and people who genuinely want to […]

Why Smarmore Castle?

Smarmore Castle is a residential addiction treatment centre set in a historical castle on 15 private acres in County Louth. We are located less than an hour from Dublin, so Smarmore Castle is close enough for easy access, but far enough to be a discreet recovery retreat. We’re part of Castle Health, a family-owned group […]

LGBTQIA+ addiction treatment in Ireland

People that identify to be in the LGBTQIA+ community can experience higher levels of alcohol and drug use than those not in this population. This is often due to the unique challenges and situations that those within this community encounter in their lives. These factors are well-understood, and addressing them directly during addiction rehab can […]

Private addiction rehab serving Galway

Inpatient rehab centre serving Galway Smarmore Castle is a private residential rehab centre serving Galway, offering discreet inpatient treatment for drug and alcohol addiction. Located around three hours from Galway in County Louth, our peaceful residential clinic provides specialist drug rehab and alcohol rehab for people travelling from Galway. Set within a historic 14th-century castle […]

Rehab Admissions

Smarmore Castle provides residential addiction treatment for patients from across Ireland and internationally. We treat alcohol addiction, drug addiction, behavioural addictions and co-occurring mental health conditions. Patients can get in touch directly by phone or email, ask their GP to make a referral, or have a family member make an initial enquiry on their behalf. […]

Rising deaths from alcohol in Northern Ireland, 2024

New figures from the UK’s Office for National Statistics confirm Northern Ireland recorded its highest rate of alcohol-specific deaths in two decades in 2024 – and is the only part of the UK still moving in the wrong direction. Every year, the Office for National Statistics publishes a bulletin that most people never see. It […]

a man receiving support after developing ketamine bladder

Ketamine bladder syndrome: causes, symptoms and help

Ketamine is becoming more common in social settings. But its regular use can carry serious risks that many people don’t fully understand. Tolerance can build quickly, meaning people often find themselves using more to get the same effect. Symptoms that follow, including persistent bladder pain or urgency, also known as ketamine bladder syndrome, are often […]

A woman talking with a doctor who is going through paperwork

The side effects of vaping: what you need to know

Vaping has become common over the past decade. It’s often marketed as a safer alternative to smoking or a tool to help people quit cigarettes. While e-cigarettes don’t produce tar or burn tobacco, they come with their own risks and side effects. Learn what vaping does to the body, why it can be difficult to […]

Ecstasy withdrawal symptoms

Taking ecstasy can trigger intense feelings of happiness and energy. When you stop taking it, this can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as low mood, feeling anxious or struggling to sleep. Getting the right support can help to make these symptoms easier to manage so you can focus on your recovery. What are the symptoms […]

woman looking alarmed over a cocaine overdose

Cocaine overdose – symptoms and what to do

Understanding the signs of a cocaine overdose and knowing what to do can be life-saving. Get medical help immediately if you think you or someone else has overdosed on cocaine. Don’t wait – call 112 now. If you suspect a cocaine overdose – call 112 immediately If you think someone may be experiencing an overdose on […]

Alcohol and gambling addiction

It’s not unusual for alcohol and gambling addictions to overlap. When they do, it’s common for the two behaviours to reinforce each other and make things harder. That’s why it’s important to treat both addictions in order to recover. Understanding the relationship between alcohol and gambling addictions is the first step. How are gambling and […]

How to celebrate an alcohol-free St Patrick’s Day

An alcohol free St Patrick’s Day is possible, even if it may not feel that simple. More people than you might expect choose not to drink on St Patrick’s Day, for all kinds of reasons. Some are in recovery. Some are cutting back. Some are pregnant, on medication, or simply do not want to drink. […]