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, The Times, New York Post, The Guardian.

Side Effects of Cocaine on the Body

Understanding the Feelings of a Cocaine High Even the highest-quality cocaine carries the risk of overdose and poses numerous dangerous cardiac and neurological consequences. On top of that, cocaine is known to trigger mental illnesses or worsen the condition of someone struggling with depression, anxiety, or bipolar. Regardless of why you choose to do cocaine […]

At Smarmore Castle we have developed a specialised and effective treatment programme for alcohol addiction.

The Number Heroin Users in Treatment in Ireland Hit Record Numbers

Heroin Users in Ireland Needing Addiction Help Reaches Record Numbers Here at Smarmore Castle, we treat huge numbers of heroin-dependent users every year. Over the last decade, our admissions department has seen substantial increases in heroin-dependent individuals seeking help, support, and recovery. See treating heroin addiction. But it’s not just our specialised addiction team that […]

How our Gambling Treatment Programme Works

More Than 1 in 5 Irish Men Are at Risk of Developing a Gambling Habit

Huge Rise in Gambling over 10 years More Than 1 in 5 Irish Men Are at Risk of Developing a Gambling Habit: For decades, we have seen how addiction to Gambling can tear apart families and destroy lives – however, today, with the normalisation of betting, fifth more young gamblers are at risk of developing […]

Belfast Addiction Services

Types of Belfast Addiction Services We understand addiction like no one else. Whatever your vice is, we know that addiction can often make you feel like you’re all alone, with no one there to listen or understand your story, let alone help guide you to the other side. Everyone suffering from an addiction deserves to […]

Why You’re so Hooked: The Science Behind Gambling

Gambling: What Happens in the brain when we Get Hooked – and How to Regain Control A gambling addiction can happen to anyone at any time. Gambling is so very addictive due to the potential rewards and dopamine release to the brain.Let us understand the science behind gambling in this article. When the brain reacts […]

But until something terrible happens to you or a loved one due to alcoholism, you will never truly grasp the true magnitude of alcohol addiction in Ireland and the number of lives it destroys.

Positive Benefits of Sobriety & Quitting Drinking

Benefits of Sobriety Giving up alcohol has countless positive effects on your physical and mental health. When you’re ready to stop drinking you will notice a number of changes over the days and weeks following your last drink – from improved sleep and lowered blood pressure in the short-term, to other crucial long-term health benefits […]

Can Social Media Help Addiction Recovery?

Can Social Media Help Addiction Recovery? These days, Twelve Step programmes are available to help recovery from any addiction. They have several defining characteristics: Acceptance, Self-help and Spirituality being notably significant. Perhaps less appreciated is the concept of Community that they all contain. The Power of ‘We’ The power of addiction cannot be overcome alone; […]

Citizen’s Information for Free Drug Addiction Services

Where to Find Information for Free Drug Addiction Services If you require free treatment for drug addiction, various options are available to you – however, it will depend on your needs and severity. In the public health service, non-residential treatment is free of charge. You can claim free addiction treatment services provided by HSE Drug […]

Addicted to Cocaine? Use Our Addiction Self Assessment Tool to Find Out

Cocaine Self-Assessment Quiz This Addiction self assessment addiction tool will help you to evaluate whether you have an addictive relationship to cocaine and whether you may need to speak to a professional. Do you frequently take cocaine and find that once you start, you can’t stop? The quiz questions below can help you find out […]

Free 2 Minute Gambling Addiction Self Test

Gambling Addiction Self Test. Are You a Problem Gambler? The below self-assessment aims to indicate whether you or a loved one is addicted to gambling. The questions below relate to real-life experiences common to gamblers and those suffering from a gambling addiction. Read the questions carefully and see if any similar challenges within the past […]

What are The Best Options for Drug and Alcohol Treatment in Ireland?

There Are Four Types Drug and Alcohol Treatment in Ireland They can be broken down into: If you require immediate help, support or advice on your options, get in touch with us here. Or speak to us on Live Chat. Charity-Run Rehab Facilities: It’s important you take the time to understand the advantages and disadvantages […]

Do you identify with the Seven Signs of love addiction?

Do I Have a Love Addiction?

Do I Have a Love Addiction? What Are the Signs and Symptoms If you’ve answered yes to many of the above, then you might be suffering from love addiction. Once this addiction sets in, it can constantly affect your behaviours and negatively impact your mental health. Free Love Addiction Assessments Perhaps we can shed some […]