Substance use and mental health are topics that touch nearly every community, with millions across the world affected each year. In 2022 alone, approximately 168 million Americans used some type of substance such as tobacco, alcohol or illicit drugs with 48.7 million reporting suffering from a substance use disorder (SUD). Among illicit drugs, marijuana was the most used, with approximately 22% of people aged 12 or older using it in the past year. But behind these numbers are real lives impacted by a complex relationship between drug use and mental health. For instance, nearly one million adolescents were found to have co-occurring major depressive disorders (MDE) and SUDs, while 21.5 million adults struggled with both a mental illness and SUD.
As marijuana use becomes more normalized it is important to consider the consequences on our mental well-being. Research has shown that past-year marijuana use is a significant risk factor for suicidal thoughts and behaviors among adolescents with the risks increasing as the frequency of use rises. In addition, following legalization in the state of Washington, the prevalence of marijuana use among 8th and 10th graders increased compared to pre-legalization levels. This presents further concern given the link between high potency marijuana and psychosis—a known predictor of suicidal behavior. Additionally, studies show that adolescents who recently used marijuana had nearly twice the odds of attempting suicide compared to non-users. Similar risks are present in those using amphetamines, cigarettes, and alcohol, especially when substance use begins at an early age.
Further research supporting these concerns have consistently found that individuals who engage in substance use are at an increased risk for suicidal ideation attempts. For example, studies suggest that drug use can impair judgement and diminish impulse control, making users more vulnerable to suicidal thoughts and behaviors. This is further supported by findings showing that individuals with substance use disorders are six times more likely to attempt suicide compared to those who do not use substances. The combination of altered brain chemistry, mental health struggles, and poor decision-making can create a dangerous spiral, leading to devastating outcomes.
As substance use and suicide remain closely intertwined, with research consistently showing a strong correlation between the two, it becomes essential to raise awareness, promote early interventions, and ensure access to comprehensive treatment so we can help save lives and provide hope to those in need.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use or suicidal thoughts, please reach out for help. The National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 at no cost, call 988 if you need to talk to someone. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA) offers a helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
References:
Atia, S. and Ahmed, H. (2020). Predictors of suicidal thoughts among substance abuse patients: problem-solving ability and hopelessness. Egyptian Journal of Health Care, 11(4), 58-82. https://doi.org/10.21608/ejhc.2020.124848
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2022). 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health: Main Highlights. https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/reports/rpt42731/2022-nsduh-main-highlights.pdf
Dadras, O. Suicide Attempt and Its Correlates Among School-Going Argentinian Adolescents with Suicidal Thoughts: Insights from a National Survey. School Mental Health (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12310-024-09696-0
Flores, M. W., Granados, S., & Cook, B. L. (2023). US trends in the association of suicide ideation/behaviors with marijuana use among adolescents ages 12-17 and differences by gender and race/ethnicity. Frontiers in psychiatry, 13, 1057784. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2022.1057784
