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Association between psychoactive substance use and suicidal thoughts in the Colombian population during 2019
K J Quintero Díaz1, J Martínez Torres1, C V Martínez Cagua2
1Grupo Grayre, Programa de Fisioterapia, Universidad de los Llanos, Villavicencio, Colombia.
Semergen
|January 11, 2026
Summary
Psychoactive substance use is strongly linked to suicidal thoughts in Colombia. Coca paste and cocaine users showed the highest risk, with more drug types increasing the likelihood of suicidal ideation.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Psychiatry
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Suicidal thoughts (STs) represent a significant public health concern globally.
- Understanding the relationship between psychoactive substance use and STs is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between the use of various psychoactive substances and the prevalence of suicidal thoughts.
- To identify specific substances most strongly linked to suicidal ideation in the Colombian population.
Main Methods:
- An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted using data from the 2019 National Survey on Psychoactive Substance Use.
- A sample of 27,252 individuals aged 12-65 who used at least one psychoactive substance in the past 12 months was analyzed.
- Generalized linear models were employed to assess the association between suicidal thoughts and the use of 14 different psychoactive substances.
Main Results:
- Significant associations between psychoactive substance use and suicidal thoughts were observed for most substances, excluding alcohol and ecstasy.
- Consumption of coca paste (PR: 16.16) and cocaine (PR: 8.72) showed the highest prevalence ratios for suicidal thoughts.
- A direct correlation was found between the number of different psychoactive substances used and the increased likelihood of experiencing suicidal thoughts.
Conclusions:
- A robust association exists between psychoactive substance consumption and suicidal ideation among the Colombian population.
- Findings highlight the need for integrated mental health and substance use treatment strategies.
- Specific substances like coca paste and cocaine warrant particular attention in prevention and intervention efforts.
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