News / Education
Suicide and Addiction
Suicide rates increase among drug and alcohol abusers and put users at greater risk.
Each year, more people kill themselves than die by any other form of violence, including war, terrorist activities and homicides, an official from the World Health Organization (WHO) said recently, in conjunction with World Suicide Prevention Day. No culture is immune, with nearly 1 million people committing suicide annually, making it the 10th leading cause of death worldwide.
One issue that isn’t talked about often enough is the link between suicide and addiction. Of those who attempt suicide, half use alcohol or illegal drugs to do so. Of those who manage to successfully take their own lives, 25 percent are currently abusing drugs and/or alcohol at the time. For those who are in the midst of addiction, it’s important to understand that alcohol and drug dependence predisposes them to death by accident, disease or suicide. The stats also apply to young people. Studies show that 50 percent of teens that commit suicide have a history of alcohol and drug use.
For those who haven’t been touched personally by the problem of suicide, it can be tempting to look the other way, but those who’ve lost a loved one in this way can struggle with guilt and depression as they try to understand what happened. The good news is that suicide is preventable, according to Brian Mishara, president of the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP). In areas that are targeted with prevention campaigns, suicide rates do decline.
Dual Diagnosis Treatment
In addition to the substance abuse, suicide is brought on by emotional factors. Depression is a major illness that can lead to suicide. At The Canyon we offer treatment for those who suffer from alcohol and drug addiction in addiction to mental illness treatment. When someone is treated for both these problems simultaneously it is called a co-occurring disorder or dual diagnosis.
Addiction Help
If you or a family member are struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol as well as depression or suicidal thoughts, call The Canyon at our toll-free number, 877.714.1319. Someone is there to take your call 24 hours a day and answer any questions you have about treatment, financing or insurance.
