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Suicidal thoughts and behaviors among untreated illicit substance users: a population-based study
Ramin Shiraly1, Seyed Amin Jazayeri2, Asal Seifaei2
1Community Medicine Department, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran. rshiraly@gmail.com.
Harm Reduction Journal
|May 16, 2024
Summary
Methamphetamine and heroin use are linked to suicidal thoughts in untreated illicit substance users. Healthcare providers should assess suicidality risk in individuals using these specific psychoactive substances.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
- Addiction Medicine
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Previous research on psychoactive substances and suicidality has produced inconsistent findings.
- Understanding the specific factors contributing to suicidal ideation and behavior among untreated illicit substance users is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
- To identify factors associated with suicidality in a population-based sample of untreated illicit substance users.
Main Methods:
- A total of 616 untreated illicit substance users were recruited using snowball sampling.
- Data on socio-demographics, mental health history, substance use, suicidal ideation (Beck Suicidal Ideation Scale), and suicide attempts were collected.
- Multiple logistic regression analysis was employed to determine independent predictors of suicidality.
Main Results:
- 23.6% of participants reported recent suicidal thoughts, and 6.7% reported a past-year suicide attempt.
- Methamphetamine was the primary substance for 49.2% of those who attempted suicide.
- Suicidal thoughts were associated with unemployment, prior mental health conditions, previous suicide attempts, polysubstance use, and primary use of methamphetamine or heroin.
Conclusions:
- Methamphetamine and heroin use are significantly associated with current suicidal thoughts.
- Physicians and mental health professionals should proactively assess suicidality risk in individuals using these substances, particularly in community and outpatient settings.
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