Substance Use and the Risk of Suicide Among Youths

The American National Household Survey on Drug Abuse assessed youths aged 12 to 17 for risk of suicide & substance use. Results indicate that 3,000,000 youths were at risk for suicide in 2000. 37% attempted suicide during this time. Youths who reported past year alcohol or illicit drug use were more likely than youths who did not use these substances to be at risk for suicide. Fewer than 20% of youths at risk for suicide received counselling from a mental health professional. (SC)