Substance Use Disorders and Suicidal Behaviors: Comparison of Illicit Drugs and Methadone

The prevalence of suicide among people with substance use disorders (SUDs) remains a significant public health issue worldwide. A review of the medical literature suggests that both substance addiction and behavioral addictions are closely associated with increased suicidal thoughts and attempts. A systematic review by Armon et al. found that 35% of individuals with SUDs reported suicidal ideation, while 20% had attempted suicide in the past year [1]. Among behavioral addictions, individuals with gambling disorder (22.9%) and sexual addiction (18.2%) reported the highest rates of suicidal ideation [2].