Nearly one in three adults in Dublin have experienced a burglary or attempted break-in, with almost half of those affected saying they no longer feel safe in their own homes, according to new research.
The findings come as burglaries typically rise during the festive season, with AXA Ireland reporting a 10–20% increase in break-ins and thefts during December and January.
The nationally representative study, commissioned by AXA Ireland and laya healthcare and carried out by iReach Insights, found that 21% of adults across Ireland have been victims of burglary or attempted burglary. However, the figure is significantly higher in the capital, where 29% of Dublin residents reported experiencing a break-in.
More concerning is the lasting psychological impact, with 45% of Dublin victims saying they feel unsafe at home after the incident. A further 3% said the emotional effects have never fully disappeared.
The research highlights that burglary affects far more than property. Nationally, 70% of victims said it took up to six months to feel comfortable again, while 20% took longer than six months. An additional 10% said they still do not feel comfortable in their homes.
One in four victims reported severe anxiety in the month following the burglary, with 8% describing it as extremely severe. Sleep disruption was also common, with 25% experiencing nightmares or difficulty sleeping, while 36% feared the burglar might return.
For Dublin residents specifically:
24% took more than six months to feel comfortable again, and 5% still feel uneasy
20% experienced severe or extremely severe anxiety
23% said they felt constantly on edge at home, compared with 20% nationally
15% considered moving home due to the emotional impact
16% sought medical or wellbeing support, including GPs or counselling
AXA Ireland said burglary risks increase during winter months due to darker evenings, increased travel and higher-value items in homes.
Mick Comerford, Director of Retail Direct at AXA Ireland, said: “Darker evenings, increased travel and higher-value items in homes leave households more vulnerable during this period.”
He added: “That’s why we increase contents cover by 10% at no additional cost for eligible home insurance policies during December, providing enhanced financial protection and peace of mind over the Christmas period.”
Laya healthcare, now part of AXA, is also drawing attention to its 24/7 Mental Wellbeing Support Programme, available to its 710,000 members at no extra cost.
Emelina Ellis, Chartered Counselling Psychologist and Clinical Lead, said: “Experiencing a home invasion is a deeply personal and often traumatic event.”
She added: “This research shows that 71% of adults would welcome guidance on psychological recovery after a burglary, highlighting the importance of early and accessible support.”
Among Dublin residents, 74% said they would welcome practical home safety advice, while 66% wanted guidance on emotional recovery.
Experts recommend taking both practical and emotional steps after a burglary, including improving home security, re-establishing routines and seeking professional support if anxiety persists.
AXA advises homeowners to lock all doors and windows, use outdoor lighting, secure sheds and garages, keep valuables out of sight, and avoid advertising travel plans on social media.
The findings underline that while stolen property can be replaced, the loss of safety and peace of mind often takes far longer to restore—especially during the festive season.
