Drug and alcohol addiction significantly increases the risk of suicidal ideation, attempts and death, and they are generally the most implicated substances in suicide risk.
The risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior is elevated with acute alcohol intoxication and chronic alcohol use or dependence.
The same applies to opioid use, as it can increase the risk of suicide and unintentional overdose caused by opioids alone or by polysubstance use, which is using a combination of different drugs and alcohol.
According to the Minnesota Department of Health, 860 Minnesotans died in 2022 from suicide, the highest total ever, and preliminary data indicates 815 died in 2023.
Men had 3 to 4 times higher rates of suicide in 2022 and 2023 than women. Suicide rates were also highest in middle age in 2023, a slight shift from 2022.
Fortunately, prevention campaigns work to increase awareness of the connection between substance use and suicide.
Anyone can take action today by knowing simple things, such as dialing 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, a 24-7 free and confidential support for people in distress.
Locally, and in addition to the Crisis Lifeline, other resources are found through the Minnesota Department of Health and its Injury and Violence Prevention Section. In addition, every county has adult mental health crisis response phone numbers.
We must all work to change the conversation from suicide to suicide prevention, and there are actions anyone can take to give hope to those who are struggling. Consider some of the following pointers:
•Ask — do not beat around the bush how they are doing and if they are thinking about suicide. Acknowledging and talking about suicide reduces suicidal ideation. Be there for that person, and they will feel less depressed, less suicidal and less overwhelmed.
•Keep them safe and help them stay connected. When lethal means are made less available or less deadly, the frequency and risks of suicide decline. Moreover, the hopelessness subsides when you help that person create a support network of resources and individuals.
•Most importantly, maintain contact, follow up and see them in person as frequently as possible. This is a critical part of suicide prevention, along with always learning more about prevention and awareness.
The process is not bulletproof, and we must recognize there are countless instances of individuals taking their lives and giving no indication or red flag they were suicidal.
But if we can keep changing the conversation, breaking down the walls of stigma, and making the resources accessible, more people may ask for help before it is too late.
