Cross-sectional and retrospective studies of both adolescents and adults have typically reported an association between suicidal behaviors and substance use. In the U.S., the 20-year period following the rapid increase in drug abuse (beginning in the 1960’s) also included a 300% increase in adolescent suicidal behaviors (Goldsmith et al. 2002). Adolescent substance users have more than a 2.5-fold increase in risk for suicidal behaviors compared to non-drug using adolescents (SAMHSA, 2002). Among adults admitted to drug-abuse treatment centers, 28% reported histories of suicidal ideation and 21% reported histories of suicide attempts (Wines et al. 2004). During the 2 years following discharge from drug-abuse treatment, significant percentages of these adults continued to report suicidal ideation and reoccurring suicide attempts (19% and 7%, respectively; Wines et al. 2004). Finally, the progression of substance use severity has been related to corresponding increases in the severity of suicidal behaviors (Garrison et al. 1993).
