Epidemiological Evidence on the Link Between Drug use and Suicidal Behaviors Among Adolescents

Increasing evidence suggests adolescents who use & abuse alcohol & drugs are at increased risk for suicide ideation, attempted suicide, & suicide, although conclusive evidence has not yet been presented suggesting drug use causes suicidal thoughts & behaviours. This paper reviews existing epidemiological evidence on the link between the use of more commonly used drugs among adolescents (for example, tobacco, alcohol, marijuana, & inhalants) & suicidal thoughts & behaviours. (64 refs.)