The Link Between Drug Use and Suicide
Is your loved one struggling with a substance use disorder? Do they seem to be at risk of suicide? The two issues are often deeply entwined. One study found that men who struggle with substance abuse are 2.3 times more likely to commit suicide compared to men who do not drink or use drugs. Similarly, women who struggle with a substance use disorder are 6.5 times more likely to die by suicide. If you are concerned that your loved one is at risk of suicide, and drug abuse is also an issue, you can take action and intervene. Drug Use and Suicide: The Connection It is exceptionally common for someone living with a mental health disorder like depression to turn to drug and alcohol use as a means of managing the resulting symptoms. When no other coping mechanisms are sought, a drink, a pill, or another drug can feel like the only means of escape from an otherwise overwhelming and debilitating depression. Similarly, use of substances can trigger or worsen co-occurring mental health disorders. In both cases, suicide becomes an increased risk. Stacy Lott, PsyD, CADC, is the Regional Director of Operations for Footprints to Recovery. She says, “People suffering from substance use disorders are likely to have depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues, which can increase the risk of suicide. “ Unfortunately, after the cessation of all use of drugs and alcohol while in recovery from addiction, suicide can become an even greater specter. “When attempting to stop using drugs, people often feel overwhelmed by the return of painful emotions that they had been medicating with drugs,” says Dr. Lott. Learning how to manage the underlying mental health disorders is ultimately of far greater importance than managing the physical withdrawal symptoms often associated with detox. Once the physiological symptoms fade, the original mental health symptoms that sparked drug use in the first place persist. In many cases, ongoing mental health symptoms may be even more difficult to manage after addiction due to the trauma associated with active addiction and the neurological changes wrought by consistent, high-dose substance abuse. Risk Factors for Addiction and Suicide Risk factors, or behaviors or environmental characteristics that predate active addiction or suicide attempts, play a big part in the likelihood that someone may attempt suicide in combination with drug use. In some cases, problems that someone is facing in life or relationships can be an indicator. For example, Dr. Lott says that substance abusers are also more likely to have social and financial problems. Someone in the midst of a contentious divorce, or who is struggling after a layoff, and using drugs or alcohol to cope may be at high risk of suicide. Some risk factors for addiction include: Risk factors for suicide include: According to Dr. Lott, suicidal tendencies and drug use often go together and share some risk factors. “Substance abuse can be a risk factor for suicide because substance use is common among those prone to impulsivity, and among those who engage in many types of high-risk behaviors that result in self-harm.” Warning Signs of Substance Use, Abuse, and Addiction The specific signs of drug use are variable, based heavily on the drug of choice, the dose, and the person’s tolerance level. For example, someone under the influence of marijuana might have red or bloodshot eyes, seem unable to follow the intricacies of a conversation, and may “zone out” easily. Someone under the influence of crystal meth or cocaine may be excessively chatty, have dilated pupils, and/or exhibit paranoia. In general, you may notice some behavioral changes when a loved one begins to abuse drugs. These may include: Should drug use become a regular habit or an addiction develops, you may notice that your love one: Warning Signs of Suicidal Tendencies According to Dr. Lott, there are a number of warning signs of suicide that friends and family members can look for, including: If you believe your loved one is suicidal, do not wait to respond, ignore the problem, or think it will go away on its own. Especially when they occur in the midst of heavy drug use or addiction, signs of suicide may be the only warning you have that your loved one’s life is in danger. An immediate response is recommended. Prevention and Intervention: How to Respond to a Loved One in Crisis Both drug addiction and suicide, separately and on their own, can be deadly. When combined, the risk for early death escalates dramatically. Says Dr. Lott, “Substance abuse not only increases the likelihood that a person will take their own life, but it is also used as a means to die by suicide.” This means that the use of substances may worsen depression and become the tool by which someone takes their own life, such as via a purposeful drug overdose. In other cases, the person may drink or use drugs and then go through with suicide while under the influence. She encourages family members and close friends to take action if they see a loved one in crisis, especially if they are going through something disruptive and do not seem to be managing the problem well. “Transitions, such as entering or leaving treatment, relapse, death, divorce, or other major life changes can be especially vulnerable times,” Dr. Lott says. She urges family and close friends to keep a few things in mind when it comes to approaching someone who may be considering suicide while also dealing with a substance use disorder. Above all, take your loved one seriously if they are talking about suicide, and do not give up trying to help them get better. Connecting them with specialists who can help them follow a personalized treatment path to recovery is an essential piece of the puzzle. Without assistance, it is unlikely that your loved one will seek help on their own.
What Stimulants Do to the Body and Mind?
Stimulants, often called “uppers,” are substances that raise levels of physiological or nervous activity in the body. A stimulant is a drug that excites any bodily function, but more specifically those that stimulate the brain and the central nervous system. The short-term effects from consuming stimulants often induce awareness, alertness, elevated mood, wakefulness, increased speech and increased motor activity. Though stimulants have very limited therapeutic use, the mood-elevating effects make some stimulants extremely potent drugs to abuse. The most commonly used street drugs, cocaine and amphetamines, fall under the category of stimulants. Below are five ways stimulant consumption, more specifically methamphetamine and cocaine, can affect the mind and body. After consumption of stimulants the brain increases certain types of cell signaling and amplifies various physiological processes throughout the brain and body. Many stimulants heighten the brain’s dopamine release, which results in a sense of well-being, increased energy, increased attention and alertness. These increases in brain activity allow the user, temporarily, to accomplish tasks at hand, meanwhile feeling a sense of euphoria. The heightened brain activity of the user, results in stimulants having a high abuse potential, due to the positive effects produced by stimulants. These desired effects are short-lived, thus causing the user to increase the intake of stimulants, resulting in a plethora of negative effects that soon follow prolonged use of stimulants. After prolonged use of stimulants, the user often experiences irritability, restlessness, hyperactivity, anxiety, excessive speech, rapid mood swings, agitation, tremors, confusion, and, in most serious cases, a state resembling paranoid schizophrenia. A user typically experiences these effects from prolonged use of stimulants because the brain is having a difficult time regulating and balancing dopamine. Stimulants also interact with certain areas of the brain that manage emotions, fear, aggression and flight-or-fight responses, and when the brain is over stimulated, often these negative effects of stimulant use become present. After stimulant abuse users brain structures and functions are altered, more specifically the cells containing serotonin. Stimulant abusers may experience weight loss, memory loss, confusion, tremors, convulsions, psychosis, repetitive motor activity, damage to nerve cells and cardiovascular collapse. Users may experience these negative side effects due to the over stimulation of the brain. Often, those on stimulants have a suppressed appetite and lack the ability to rest properly, causing many of the symptoms listed above. Those who abuse stimulants will try to maintain the feelings present during the initial use of a stimulant, by increasing the amount used and the frequency of use, inevitably causing much of these side effects. The let down effects or often referred to as the “come down,” causes much distress in the user. Once the effects of a stimulant ends, dopamine levels drop below normal and individuals endure a crash, also known as a comedown. A comedown is a period of exhaustion that occurs because the body is drained of energy. Symptoms of a stimulant come down often include aches and pains, low energy, confusion, intense drug cravings, agitation, restlessness, anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation. According to the Center for Health, Identity, Behavior and Prevention Studies at New York University, it is said that it takes 7-10 days for the body to reach normal energy levels after extended stimulant abuse. The long-term effects of stimulant abuse are rather severe, due to the potency of many stimulants. It is likely that those who abuse stimulants may develop an addiction, which in turn, causes intense drug cravings that lead users to continuously use, despite consequences. Other side effects and risks associated with the long-term use of stimulants include heart disease, high blood pressure, seizures, irregular heartbeat and skin discolorations. Author: Michael Kelly, Clinical Technician
Opiates’ Effects on the Brain and Body
Opiates are among the most abused drugs in the United States. Opiates are naturally occurring opioids and include substances like heroin, codeine, and morphine. Derived from chemicals found in the sap of opium poppy, some opiates are used medically to manage pain or suppress coughing. Repeated use of these drugs can lead to opiate addiction. Opioid tolerance, dependence, and addiction are all indicators that your brain chemistry has changed due to chronic opiate use. Opiate and opioid addiction can develop in a couple of ways: Here are some short- and long-term effects of opiate use: Short-Term Effects of Opiates: Opiates are known to cause profound sleepiness. Frequently, opiate abusers will experience sporadic periods of “nodding off” as they slip in and out of consciousness. Long- Term Effects of Opiates: How Opiates Affect the Brain There are opioid receptors in the brain, but they don’t produce enough natural opioids to stop severe or chronic pain. One of the ways an opioid pill or injection relieves pain is by flooding your brain’s reward system with dopamine. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that regulates: Dopamine is often called the brain’s feel-good chemical. It rewards natural behaviors like eating, exercising, and sex. In large amounts, opioids produce euphoric effects. Repeated misuse of opiates and opioids changes your brain and sends strong messages to repeat the behavior. In most cases, the result is opioid dependence and addiction. Dependence is the need to keep taking drugs to avoid opioid withdrawal symptoms. Typically, physical dependence is resolved after drug detox, within days or weeks after quitting opioids. However, drug addiction is more complex and long-lasting. Addiction is the intense drug craving and compulsion to use. Addiction can produce cravings that lead to relapse months or years after you’re no longer opioid dependent. While much of the research into opiates’ effects on the brain explores mid- to long-term use, some research shows opioids can alter your brain in just a few weeks. A recent study found that after just a month of morphine use, people had measurable changes in their brains. MRIs showed reductions in their gray matter volume, which affects the part of the brain that’s responsible for: How Opiates Affect the Body Beyond opiates’ effects on the brain, other parts of the body suffer as well. Here’s how opioid addiction impacts some of the body systems: Respiratory System Opiates’ effects on the brain extend to the central nervous system (CNS), which controls respiration. In particular, opioids slow down the CNS, depressing breathing patterns significantly. In some cases, breathing can stop altogether. Therefore, opioid abuse puts you at a high risk for overdose. Opiate and opioids can also suppress or block air from reaching the lungs. Circulatory System Opiates’ impact on the circulatory system may include: Endocrine System The endocrine system is also impacted by opiate abuse. Some of the issues long-term opiate use can cause include: Digestive System Opiates and opioids have several adverse effects on the gut. Some of these include: Immune System Opioids are known to suppress the immune system making you more susceptible to illness. These types of drugs impact the cellular immune system, changing your body’s ability to fight bacterial infections. Opiate abuse can indirectly impact the immune system by lack of self-care. If you struggle with substance abuse, you’re focused on using drugs or alcohol. Things that support a healthy immune system like proper nutrition, getting enough sleep, and exercise typically fall by the wayside. Get Help. Prevent Further Damage. Opiates’ effects on the brain and body can cause irreversible damage. Drug abuse also impacts your behavioral health. Opioid addiction is difficult to recover from, but not impossible. We’ve seen countless clients take back their lives and build better ones in recovery. Footprints to Recovery offers evidence-based addiction treatment that addresses the underlying reasons behind drug and alcohol abuse. Opioid treatment at our drug and alcohol rehabs include: We offer residential and outpatient programs. Reach out today. We can help. References
The Link Between Sexual Assault, Sexual Abuse, and Addiction
Every 68 seconds, an American is sexually assaulted. Sexual assault and alcohol or drugs often go hand-in-hand. The same is true for sexual abuse and addiction. Substances can play a role both before and after unwanted sexual activity. People involved in sexual violence or sexual aggression are often under the influence of drugs or alcohol. In the aftermath of sexual abuse or sexual assault, alcohol and drugs can be a way for victims to numb the emotional pain, shame, guilt, and fear they feel. Sexual Assault and Alcohol or Drugs According to the United States Department of Justice, sexual assault is “any type of sexual contact or behavior that occurs without the explicit consent of the recipient.” Sexual assault can be anything that forces unwanted sexual activity, which includes physical, verbal, or visual acts. In the last couple of decades, the media has shown a spotlight on sexual assault and alcohol’s role on college campuses. Around half of college sexual assaults involve alcohol or binge drinking. “Date rape drugs” like Rohypnol, GHB, and Ketamine are prevalent in sexual assault as well with over 50% of college women and 40% of college men saying their drinks were spiked by another person. College campuses aren’t the only place where sexual assault and alcohol are issues though. According to RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network), an American is sexually assaulted every 68 seconds. Drugs or alcohol are a part of these incidents all too often. The influence of alcohol or drugs increases the likelihood of being a sexual assault perpetrator or victim. Furthermore, experiencing sexual assault is a significant risk factor for future substance abuse and addiction. There are several ways that sexual assault and alcohol and drugs are linked: In any form, sexual assault is a highly traumatic event, and it’s common to develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) afterwards. Sexual assault can have long-lasting psychological, emotional, and physical effects that cause great difficulty in everyday life. Sexual trauma affects survivors differently, but some common outcomes include: Some therapies shown to be effective in treating sexual assault and alcohol or drug abuse include: Sexual Abuse and Addiction It’s estimated that one in 13 males and one in four females are sexually abused during childhood. Being sexually abused is a childhood trauma that puts people at increased risk for substance use disorders. Sexual abuse is considered an adverse childhood experience (ACE). The more ACEs, the greater vulnerability to alcohol addiction or drug addiction. Some research has found that sexual abuse as an ACE is one of the strongest predictors of future substance abuse. People who experience child abuse of any kind, may drink alcohol or use drugs as coping mechanisms. This can be a way to self-medicate the emotions and difficulties that stem from an ACE. Common emotions and issues tied to sexual abuse and addiction include: Using substances to mask these issues can quickly lead to drug or alcohol dependence. Getting Help for Sexual Trauma and Addiction Addressing the emotions and fears stemming from sexual abuse or sexual assault is difficult but can also be relieving and empowering. To overcome the unhealthy coping skills that you’ve used as survival tools, you must explore the underlying issues that are contributing to substance abuse. You also need to develop healthy ways to cope with triggers and challenges. We can help you with this. Footprints to Recovery provides a safe, accepting space where you can feel comfortable sharing about difficult topics. You’ll develop a trusting relationship with an individual counselor and attend group therapy with peers who are addressing emotional wounds as well. Trauma-focused therapies like EMDR can help you recover from trauma without having to “relive” difficult experiences. A blend of traditional therapies and experiential approaches can ensure you’re addressing the mental, physical, and spiritual deficits from sexual abuse and addiction. Our addiction treatment programs offer several levels of care: We tailor your treatment plan to your background, preferences, and needs so your time with us is relevant and addresses any co-occurring disorders or other challenges. It’s hard to see beyond your struggles right now, but there is hope, and you can recover. Contact us today to learn how we can help. References
Suicide: One of Addiction’s Hidden Risks
If you’ve ever considered suicide, you may know the first-hand struggle of feeling depressed and helpless. Similarly, if you’ve lost someone to suicide, you understand the anguish and confusion people experience when a loved one commits suicide. Suicide continues to remain an ongoing epidemic in the United States. Today, it is the tenth leading cause of death. On average, there are 132 suicides per day, and that number doesn’t account for the attempts people make. There is no doubt that suicide is a complex issue. Many factors trigger suicidal ideation, including drug use. For some people, substance abuse and suicide go hand-in-hand. What Is the Connection Between Substance Abuse and Suicide? Substance use represents a serious risk factor for suicide attempts. Compared to the general population, research shows that people struggling with addiction are 10 to 14 times more likely to die from suicide. Nearly a quarter of suicides involve alcohol intoxication, and opiates are present in 20% of suicide deaths. The reasons for committing suicide vary. Many people struggling with addiction feel immense guilt, shame, sadness, and anger towards themselves. They also often: Feel uncertain about whether they can live without substances Feel like they are doomed to make bad decisions. Self-harm Have poor impulse control Struggle with low self-esteem and self-worth Have medical, legal, or financial issues that can trigger feelings of hopelessness Deal with co-occurring mental health issues, like depression or anxiety Have unresolved trauma Struggle with impaired judgment Certain risk factors, like previous suicidal behavior or a family history of suicide, can increase someone’s likelihood of making an attempt. Research suggests 90% of people who die by suicide have one or more psychiatric disorders. The risk of suicide increases more with the presence of both a psychiatric disorder and a substance use disorder. Not everyone with addiction struggles with suicidal thoughts. But many people who struggle with suicidal thoughts have problems with drugs or alcohol. How Do You Know If Someone You Love Is at Risk of Suicide? Sometimes people with suicidal thoughts discuss their struggles openly. But it’s also very common for them to withhold their feelings. It’s important to understand the common warning signs of suicide. They include: Talking about wanting to die or kill themselves (even jokingly) Talking about feeling trapped, hopeless, or purposeless Acting increasingly anxious, agitated, or reckless Displaying irritation and rage Exhibiting extreme mood swings on a routine basis Sleeping too little or too much Using more alcohol or drugs Talking about feeling like a burden to others That said, not everyone displays these common risk factors. Unfortunately, suicide can happen without warning. Some people can be extremely guarded or secretive about their feelings. They may not want to burden others with their struggles. What Steps Should You Take If You Are Struggling? If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, you are not alone. Even though the pain may feel unbearable, feelings pass. Things can get better. With time, support, and resources, you can find more meaning in life. Make a Safety Plan If you struggle with recurrent suicidal thoughts or depression, a safety plan can help you take care of yourself. These plans are meant to be made before you’re in an acute crisis. If you make an attempt and recover from it, a safety plan can help you if thoughts arise again. Safety plans are written plans that identify the steps you will take if you struggle with suicidal thoughts. These plans serve as excellent references for when you’re in immediate distress. A safety plan should include coping skills for how you can manage your emotions. It should also include contact information for trusted friends or family as well as a doctor or therapist. Delay the Urge Even if you’re experiencing tremendous pain, commit to distancing yourself from your intended action. For example, give yourself a week to revisit your thoughts. By refusing to take immediate action, you gain ownership over your emotions. If you are struggling with depression and/or suicidal thoughts, please know that you do not have to continue to feel this way. Hope and treatment is available. Make Your Surroundings Safe Remove any weapons, pills, knives, or razors. For your safety, please make sure they are inaccessible for the next few days. It is a good idea to give these items to someone you trust. You can also contact a loved one to remove them for you. Reach Out to Your Support Even if it doesn’t seem like anyone cares, people want to help you during this vulnerable time. Refer to your safety plan and reach out to your trusted contacts. Do it immediately, even if it feels scary or embarrassing. By sharing your feelings with someone, you’re choosing to keep fighting. Seek Addiction Treatment Drugs and alcohol can exacerbate suicidal thoughts. Professional treatment is often the first step toward recovery. Your treatment team will also provide you with support for managing difficult emotions. Call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline or 911 If you have an immediate plan to harm yourself, it’s imperative to reach out for support right away. Calling 1-800-273-8255 will connect you to trained crisis counselors via a 24/7 hotline. This support is free and confidential. You can also speak with a crisis counselor through their online chat lifeline. Additionally, you can call 911 or visit your local emergency room anytime you need to. Suicide is a serious and devastating issue. Addiction can complicate and increase suicidal behavior. At Footprints to Recovery, we can help you work through managing these challenging emotions. We believe everyone deserves the chance to heal. Contact us today to learn more about our process. References https://afsp.org/suicide-statistics/ https://psychiatryonline.org/doi/full/10.1176/appi.ajp-rj.2018.130603 https://www.hhs.gov/answers/mental-health-and-substance-abuse/does-alcohol-increase-risk-of-suicide/index.html https://save.org/about-suicide/warning-signs-risk-factors-protective-factors/ https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6165520/
