The Link Between Substance Abuse and Suicide

As suicide rates continue to increase, it’s time to start having some serious conversations. What contributes to sucidial thoughts? Mental health conditions such as depression, PTSD, anxiety are some factors that can contribute to suicide. Bullying, abuse, and loss can also contribute. Another important contribution that needs to be addressed is substance abuse.

People often turn to substances like drugs or alcohol as depressants, using them to numb emotional pain and escape from the thoughts and memories of their trauma. According to the National Institute on Drug abuse, studies show that 50% of people with mental health disorders experience a substance use disorder. Between 30-50% of people with depression reported that they resorted to alcohol use during depressive episodes. Substance abuse has also affected young adults, about 37% of young adults with depression have reported using illicit drugs to help them cope.

Although substances temporarily helps dull your emotional pain and reduces anxiety, overtime they worsen your symptoms making you become dependent and that’s when you become addicted. Between 30-50% of people who have died by suicide struggled with substance abuse and individuals with substance use abuse are about 6-14 times more likely to die by suicide than the general population. The connection between substance abuse and suicide is significant, as substance use can amplify feelings of hopelessness, impulsivity, and depression. It’s important to share your trauma and emotions with trusted loved ones or a professional. Instead of avoiding your feelings and turning to substances to numb the pain, face your emotions directly and work through them to find healing.