Sex-Specific Associations Between Cannabis Use, Suicidal Intent, and Suicidal Ideation Among Low-Income U.S. Veterans

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Epidemiology
• Veterans' Health

Background:

• Suicidal behavior is a significant concern among veterans.
• Understanding risk factors, including substance use and demographics, is crucial for prevention.
• Previous research has not fully explored cannabis use in relation to suicidal ideation and intent within this population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between lifetime cannabis use and lifetime prevalence of suicidal ideation and intent among low-income U.S. veterans.
• To examine if these associations differ by sex.
• To identify other contributing factors such as major depressive disorder (MDD) and sociodemographic variables.

Main Methods:

• Data from 1,004 veterans from the National Veteran Homeless and Other Poverty Experiences (NV-HOPE) survey were analyzed.
• Bivariate and multivariable analyses were employed.
• Associations between lifetime cannabis use, sex, MDD, and suicidal ideation/intent were examined, controlling for sociodemographic factors.

Main Results:

• Lifetime cannabis use, younger age, and major depressive disorder (MDD) were significantly associated with lifetime suicidal ideation.
• The association between lifetime cannabis use and suicidal intent was stronger in males than females.
• MDD increased the odds of suicidal intent nearly fivefold; White veterans had lower odds of suicidal intent compared to non-White veterans.

Conclusions:

• Lifetime cannabis use is associated with both suicidal ideation and intent in low-income veterans.
• Sex-specific differences exist in the association between cannabis use and suicidal intent.
• Strategies to reduce suicidal behavior in veterans should incorporate sex-specific, demographic, and clinical considerations.