Jack is 35 and lives in an apartment block alone. He qualified as a mechanic and made good money prior to the recession: Addiction Case Study, MU, Ireland

Jack is 35 and lives in an apartment block alone. He qualified as a mechanic and made good money prior to the recession. He lost his workshop as he couldn’t afford yet another increase in the rent by the landlord. He helps his friend Tom from time to time repair cars and motorbikes on the side but he owes Tom €600. He watches TV most days and often drinks to ease his boredom. He is too ashamed to tell his friends the real story – he just says he’s too busy to meet them. He has 3 brothers who live nearby – he sees them sometimes at local football matches.

His sister calls around sometimes and while they were close growing up, he finds himself avoiding her in case she really finds out what’s going on. He has been seeing Maria on and off for the last 3 years – he knows that she is keen to settle down but every time she brings it up in conversation, he changes the subject. He had a few drinks earlier today. He says that the drink and a bit of hash help to calm his nerves. Jack doesn’t do any other drugs but he has tried them all! His sister gives him Valium and sleeping tablets but they don’t really count as they’re prescribed by her doctor.

He’s had a few tablets today but can’t say how many. Recently, Maria found the tablet bottles and was really upset. Jack told her that his sister left them in his apartment. Jack loves his own space, having a few drinks, and the feeling of being stoned. He doesn’t have to think about anything but he is fed up with fighting with Maria and having to make up stories for his sister. Tom has been pestering him too about the money he owes. He doesn’t know where to start with the mess that his life has become.