The 35th Annual Research Conference held today by St John of God Research Foundation explores research, regulation and the rehabilitation of addiction in Ireland
Tuesday 11 November 2025: A major conference has heard warnings of a significant rise in behavioural addictions across Ireland. The 35th Annual St John of God Research Conference heard warnings of a sharp rise in addictive practices such as gambling, video gaming, excessive internet use, screen time/scrolling and excessive purchasing.
Speakers from Ireland and Europe have come together today for the event taking place at the Talbot Hotel in Stillorgan County Dublin. The conference focuses on the theme of ‘Exploring Addiction – Research, Regulation and Rehabilitation,’ as leading researchers, clinicians, policymakers, and community advocates examine the latest developments, challenges, and innovations in addiction research, treatment, and policy.
The surge in behavioural addictions is frequently linked to constant digital connectivity, leaving young people particularly vulnerable. Today’s conference heard that 69% of people are increasingly worried that technology is hindering children’s communication skills, while a further 37% believe it is negatively affecting their home life. It also heard that up to 2 in 5 people are checking social while struggling to sleep, but that this figure climbs to 7 out of 10 for Gen z’s.
Behavioural addictions involve compulsive engagement in a behaviour or activity and differ from substance addictions, which involve dependence on a chemical substance such as alcohol and drugs.
Speakers at today’s conference include Professor Colin O’Gara, Head of Addiction Services at St John of God Hospital, Prof Bobby Smith, Consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, Prof Evelien Poelen, Radboud University (Netherlands) and Anne Marie Caulfield, CEO of the Gambling Regulatory Authority as well as John O’Neill, Head of Policy, Research and Innovation at the Department of Health and Tony O’Reilly a Gambling Addictions Counsellor with lived experience.
Speaking at the conference, Lesley O’Hara, Chief Executive Officer of the St John of God Research Foundation, said: “Addiction touches every part of society, and tackling it effectively requires a collective informed response. Today’s discussions underscore the importance of research-led strategies and cross-sector collaboration in shaping the future of addiction care.”
Professor Colin O’Gara, Head of Addiction Services at St John of God Hospital, added: “Behavioural addictions are increasingly prevalent in a world of constant digital connectivity. Understanding these conditions as addictions is crucial for developing compassionate, evidence-based responses in treatment and policy.”
Through keynote addresses, research presentations and panel discussions, attendees explored the multifaceted nature of addictions, from prevention and early intervention to harm reduction, recovery pathways, digital influences and policy reform.
This year’s event placed a strong emphasis on collaboration and evidence-based practice, highlighting how research can inform more effective clinical approaches and policy decisions. Attendees are debating emerging addiction trends, the impact of technology on behaviour and new frameworks for rehabilitation and support.
Now in its 35th year, the St John of God Annual Research Conference continues to serve as a vital forum for knowledge exchange and innovation, reinforcing the organisation’s commitment to advancing understanding, treatment and recovery in the field of addiction. For the full agenda and information, click here.
For media enquiries:
Lucy McGivern, Q4PR, 086 158 7850