Substance use disorders linked to suicide rates for US veterans

a significant upsurge in suicide risk for both men and women. However, the researchers could not differentiate between prescription opioid misuse and illicit opioids like heroin.

Additionally, two-thirds of the documented suicides involved handguns, which also emphasizes the importance of firearm safety within vulnerable populations; a total of 25 percent of the suicides involved an SUD and intentional overdose calling for a need to implement effective strategies against suicide in that group.

The researchers added that these discoveries could be valuable markers for strategies used to assess suicide risk and co-occurring psychiatric disorders — such as schizophrenia, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder and bipolar disorder — and partially clarify links between suicide and SUDs, especially among women.

Cesar Gamboa
Author: Cesar Gamboa

Cesar Gamboa is a staff reporter and editor for Addiction Now covering topics ranging from legislation to scientific studies. He was previously a general assignment reporter for the Orange County Register. SoCal raised, lover of books, and avid mountain biker (when he wants to be). He can be reached at cesarg@addictionnow.com.

Summary
Article Name
Substance use disorders linked to suicide rates for US veterans
Description
U.S. veterans are particularly vulnerable to suicidal tendencies when substance use disorders (SUDs) are present, especially among female veterans, new research published in the journal Addiction reveals.
Author
Cesar Gamboa
Publisher Name
Addiction Now