Drug Use Increases Suicidal Thoughts

It is often said that suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem. Sadly, many alcoholics and addicts resort to suicide before the miracle of sobriety is experienced. In fact, a new government survey has found that adults who use drugs think about suicide more than the general population.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) conducted the survey including about 70,000 people ages 12 and older. The results showed that 9.4 percent of people using illicit drugs had suicidal thoughts, compared with 3.9 percent of the general population, according to HealthDay.

The survey showed that the rate of suicidal thoughts was different with each drug used:

• 20.9 percent of people who use sedatives (non-medical use).
• 14.7 percent of people who use cocaine.
• 13 percent of people who use pain relievers (non-medical use).
• 9.6 percent of people who use marijuana.

“Suicide takes a devastating toll on individuals, families and communities across our nation,” Dr. Peter Delany, Director of SAMHSA’s Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality, said in a news release. “We must reach out to all segments of our community to provide them with the support and treatment they need so that we can help prevent more needless deaths and shattered lives.”

If you or a loved one is experiencing suicidal thoughts, the best course is to reach out for help. There are not any problems that are insurmountable, every issue can be addressed with the right support.

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