The Connection Between Substance Abuse & Suicide Rates

The Role of Substance Abuse on Mental Health & Suicidal Ideation

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), nearly 1 in 3 adults had a substance use disorder (SUD) or mental illness in the past year. This statistic shows just how closely linked these two issues can be.

When discussing the connection between substance abuse and mental health, it’s important to note that drug use can both cause and worsen mental health issues. Studies have found that people with anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), are more likely to develop an SUD than those without a mental illness. Substance abuse may sharply increase symptoms of mental illness or even trigger new symptoms. And prolonged substance abuse can lead to long-term changes in brain chemistry that can further impact an individual’s emotional well-being.

The link between substance abuse and suicide ideation is also concerning. Those who suffer from a substance use disorder and a co-occurring mental health condition are at an increased risk for suicide ideation and suicide attempts compared to those with only one of the conditions. Research has also shown that cannabis can increase your chances of developing psychosis or a psychotic disorder associated with an increased risk for suicide ideation.

Significant Risk Factors for Suicide

One of the most common risk factors for suicide is mental illness, particularly depression and other mood disorders. People who suffer from depression are more likely to have thoughts of suicide. Other mental health conditions such as anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance abuse, and post-traumatic stress disorder can also increase the risk of suicide.

Other significant risk factors include:

• Substance abuse: The misuse of drugs and alcohol can exacerbate existing mental health issues or create new ones, potentially leading to suicidal thoughts.
• Previous suicide attempts: A history of suicide attempts increases the risk of future attempts.
• Family history of suicide: Having a close relative who has died by suicide can significantly increase a person’s risk.
• Traumatic experiences: Experiencing trauma, such as physical or sexual abuse, violence, or the death of a loved one, can lead to an increased risk of suicide.
• Chronic pain or illness: Living with chronic pain or a severe medical condition can contribute to feelings of hopelessness and increase the likelihood of suicidal thoughts.
• Social isolation: A lack of social support and feelings of loneliness can increase the risk of suicide.

Do Mental Health Disorders Lead to Substance Abuse & Suicide?

The link between mental health disorders and substance abuse is complex but clear: individuals suffering from mental health issues may turn to drugs or alcohol in an attempt to dull their symptoms without seeking professional help from a doctor or therapist. This often leads to complications such as physical dependence, worsening symptoms, and increasing risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors if left untreated for too long.

Prolonged use of drugs or alcohol can cause changes to the brain, leading to mental health issues and further increasing the chance you may try to harm yourself. Under these circumstances, the best course of action is to enroll in a treatment program designed specifically for dual-diagnosis cases where you will simultaneously receive treatment for both conditions.

How Relationships & Support Systems Affected by Substance Use Can Lead to Depression

Substance use can harm relationships with friends and family members. Those you care about may distance themselves because your behavior is disruptive or dangerous, creating chaos in their lives. Becoming estranged from those who were once closest to you can make you feel lonely and drop you into a state of depression.

Your substance use may also affect your job performance and, by extension, your financial security. Job loss can increase stress and feelings of isolation and loneliness, intensifying depression symptoms.

If you are using substances, you may not be able to participate in activities that would normally bring them joy or provide a sense of purpose. This lack of meaningful activity can also contribute to depression symptoms.