Florida Public Health Review

The Relationship between Substance Abuse and Suicide among Adolescents

Publication Date

2016

Abstract

Suicide, prominent in adolescents, presents a major public health problem. This study examined the relationship between substance abuse and suicide among adolescents after adjusting for socio-demographic, interpersonal violence, and mental health variables. Data were drawn from the Youth Risk Behavior Survey. Suicidal measures included ideation, plan, attempts, and severe attempts. Substance abuse, depression, purging, and forced sex were the major predictors. Our findings may be of value to educators, providers, and policymakers in helping to target teens contemplating suicide. To curb incidence of suicidal thoughts and behavior among teens, routine screenings for substance abuse in schools is recommended.

Recommended Citation

Evans, Darren and Tawk, Rima (2016) "The Relationship between Substance Abuse and Suicide among Adolescents," Florida Public Health Review: Vol. 13, Article 8.
Available at: https://digitalcommons.unf.edu/fphr/vol13/iss1/8

Download

Included in

Public Health Commons, Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons

COinS

Accessibility Statement

This item was created or digitized before April 24, 2027, or is a reproduction of legacy material created before that date. It is preserved in its original, unmodified state specifically for research, reference, or historical recordkeeping. In accordance with the ADA Title II Final Rule, the Library provides accessible versions of archival materials by request. If you are experiencing difficulty accessing the information on the site due to a disability, please submit a request through the following form for assistance.