Bad Duo: Drugs and Suicide

BY: Neighbors’ Consejo|

“Suicide is death caused by injuring oneself with the intent to die[1]”- CDC. This undoubtedly sounds dramatic, as it summarizes a final act that a person can take. However, the act is not isolated from mental health issues that lead to it, but rather directly related to them. There are many emotional issues that can lead to this act, but scant attention is being paid to the poisonous combination of mental health issues co-occurring with substance abuse.

According to Addiction Center, in 2015, over 33,000 Americans died from opioids. Due to the nature of overdose, it is impossible to know how many of these deaths were accidental and how many were suicides. Men with an opioid use disorder were twice as likely to fall victim to suicide, and women with an opioid use disorder were 8 times as likely to commit suicide. Opioid use is associated with a 40%-60% increased likelihood of suicidal thoughts, and a 75% increased likelihood of suicide attempts. Some studies suggest that opioid and injection drug users are 13 times as likely to die by suicide [2].

Now that National Suicide Prevention Month has ended, we must always remember that paying attention to this issue should be a constant matter, and not just a matter of thought for one month. To prevent it, talk with people close to you – talking and expressing what you feel is always good. Do not be afraid of being judged. Do not consume alcohol as it is a depressant and will only worsen your emotional state. Furthermore, alcohol can lead you to drugs, which will drive you deeper into despair. Stay away from environments conducive to consumption of alcohol or drugs. Avoid negative thoughts and, as soon as possible, seek the support of a professional [3].

References

[1] https://www.cdc.gov/suicide/facts/index.html

[2] https://www.addictioncenter.com/addiction/addiction-and-suicide/

[3] https://www.pvamu.edu/sa/drug-and-alcohol-abuse-prevention-program-daapp/tips-for-preventing-substance-abuse/

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