Last Updated:

October 4th, 2024

Addiction and Suicide

Understanding suicidal behaviour

Understanding suicidal behaviour is crucial, as it can often be difficult to differentiate between actions that may signal suicidal intent and those that don’t. Recognising these behaviours early can help prevent tragedy and provide the necessary support to those at risk.

While some behaviours are clear indicators of distress, others may be more subtle, making it essential to know what to look for:

  • Talking about wanting to die or to kill oneself.
  • Expressing feelings of hopelessness or having no reason to live.
  • Searching for methods to end one’s life, such as looking up ways to commit suicide or acquiring lethal means.
  • Giving away prized possessions or making arrangements for after death (e.g., writing a will).
  • Withdrawing from friends, family and social activities.
  • Displaying extreme mood swings, particularly a sudden calmness after being depressed.
  • Engaging in reckless or risky activities, seemingly without regard for safety.
  • Self-harming with a clear intent to die rather than as a coping mechanism.

Is addiction linked with suicide?

Any addiction has the potential to be linked with suicide, especially as it disrupts every aspect of a person’s life, physically, emotionally and mentally. However, there are two types of addictions that are consistently connected with suicide, making it crucial to understand the heightened risk they pose.

Alcohol addiction and suicide

There’s a strong and concerning link between alcohol addiction and the risk of suicide. Misusing alcohol can significantly increase the chances of having suicidal thoughts, making attempts, or even losing one’s life to suicide.

Studies have shown that as alcohol consumption rises, so do suicide rates. In recent years, the number of people struggling with heavy drinking and alcohol addiction has grown at an alarming rate, with nearly 50% more individuals now living with alcohol use disorder. Sadly, this has been accompanied by a 35% increase in alcohol-related suicides.

These figures are a stark reminder of how alcohol can deepen feelings of hopelessness and despair, making it vital to reach out for help before things spiral further.

Drug addiction and suicide

Drug addiction has the ability to take over someone’s life in ways that feel overwhelming. As the addiction deepens, it not only affects physical health but also impacts mental well-being, leaving many feeling hopeless and trapped.

The emotional toll of addiction can be so heavy that it increases the risk of suicidal thoughts and actions, especially when paired with the financial and social struggles that often come with long-term drug use. Research shows that individuals facing substance use disorders are at a higher risk for suicide, highlighting just how crucial it is to reach out for support before things get worse.

What came first – the addiction or the suicidal behaviour?

The question of whether addiction or suicidal behaviours come first is a difficult one, as both can be deeply connected and influence each other in ways that vary from person to person. For some, addiction may fuel suicidal thoughts, while for others, existing mental health challenges or suicidal tendencies may lead to addiction as a way to cope.

Addiction leading to suicidal behaviours

Addiction can take a heavy toll on mental health, intensifying feelings of hopelessness and despair. As substance use begins to control someone’s life, they may feel trapped, ashamed or unable to see a way out. The relentless cycle of intoxication, withdrawal and searching for relief can diminish self-worth, leaving a person overwhelmed by hopelessness.

Suicidal behaviours leading to addiction

In some cases, suicidal thoughts or behaviours might come before the addiction, with individuals turning to substances as a way to numb emotional pain or quiet the intense feelings that accompany suicidal ideation. What begins as a temporary escape can gradually turn into addiction making it even harder to break free from the struggles they’re facing.

Stressed female taking drug overdose sitting beside the bed try to suicide

Can I attend addiction rehab if I show suicidal behaviours?

At Primrose Lodge, we understand how intertwined mental health and addiction can be. If you’re dealing with suicidal tendencies, seeking professional help to stabilise your mental health will allow you to focus on recovery once you’re ready for rehab. It’s important to reach out to mental health professionals who can support you through this difficult time.

Only once those tendencies are under control should you then consider beginning addiction treatment, where you’ll be in a safe environment, ready to start the next phase of your healing journey.

How are those with addictions and a history of suicidal behaviours treated at Primrose Lodge?

At Primrose Lodge, while our primary focus is on addiction recovery, we understand that a history of suicidal behaviours cannot be overlooked. In fact, many of the therapeutic techniques we employ to treat addiction have a positive impact on those facing suicidal thoughts. Our approach addresses both addiction and suicidal ideation, creating a comprehensive and supportive healing environment.

Our treatment programme begins with a thorough assessment to address your addiction and evaluation of any lingering suicidal behaviours. If needed, a medically supervised detox will follow to manage withdrawal symptoms.

We then begin the therapy side of our addiction treatment programme. Here’s how the therapeutic methods help to address both addiction and suicidal behaviours.

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)

DBT is a powerful tool for individuals dealing with both addiction and suicidal behaviours. It teaches strategies to manage emotional distress and develop healthier ways to respond to triggers without resorting to harmful behaviours. For those struggling with addiction, DBT can help reduce cravings by promoting mindfulness and emotional regulation.

Individual Therapy

One-on-one therapy sessions provide a tailored approach to your recovery, giving you the opportunity to delve into the underlying causes of both your addiction and any past suicidal thoughts or behaviours. Individual therapy allows you to work through emotional pain, trauma and mental health issues that may have contributed to your addiction or suicidal behaviours.

Group therapy

Group therapy is a vital part of our programme, offering a safe space for individuals to share their experiences with both addiction and mental health struggles. Addiction often thrives in isolation and for someone with a history of suicidal behaviours, feeling disconnected can exacerbate the problem.

Holistic therapies

Holistic approaches such as art therapy and yoga offer alternative, non-verbal ways to process emotions and stress, benefiting both addiction recovery and mental well-being.

Aftercare

After completing the main treatment programme, our aftercare system is designed to act as a safety net as you transition back into everyday life. Aftercare is a crucial part of recovery, particularly for those who have struggled with suicidal thoughts or behaviours, as it provides ongoing support and resources to help you maintain your sobriety and mental well-being.

With regular check-ins, continued therapy options and access to support networks, aftercare ensures that you have the tools you need to sustain your recovery and thrive.

What’s next?

If you’re struggling with addiction and suicidal thoughts, it’s important to know that help is available. At Primrose Lodge, we offer compassionate and professional treatment tailored to your needs. Our team is dedicated to supporting you through every step of recovery, addressing both your addiction and mental health concerns. Take the first step toward healing—reach out to us today and begin your journey to a brighter future.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many addiction-related suicides occur in the UK a year?
While exact figures are hard to pinpoint, addiction significantly increases the risk of suicide. For example, the risk of suicide is six times higher in people with addiction compared to the general population, with males facing over four times the risk and females facing 11 times the risk. Addiction and substance misuse often play a major role in these statistics, highlighting the importance of addressing both addiction and mental health together.
Will curing addiction be enough on its own to stop my suicidal thoughts?
While treating addiction can improve mental health, it may not be enough to fully address suicidal thoughts. It’s important to seek professional help for both addiction and underlying mental health issues, as they are often closely related.
What should I do if I am experiencing suicidal thoughts?
If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, seek immediate help by contacting a mental health professional, calling a crisis helpline, or visiting a healthcare provider. It’s important to talk to someone and not face these feelings alone.

(Click here to see works cited)

  • Rizk MM, Herzog S, Dugad S, Stanley B. Suicide Risk and Addiction: The Impact of Alcohol and Opioid Use Disorders. Curr Addict Rep. 2021;8(2):194-207. doi: 10.1007/s40429-021-00361-z. Epub 2021 Mar 14. PMID: 33747710; PMCID: PMC7955902.
  • Lynch FL, Peterson EL, Lu CY, Hu Y, Rossom RC, Waitzfelder BE, Owen-Smith AA, Hubley S, Prabhakar D, Keoki Williams L, Beck A, Simon GE, Ahmedani BK. Substance use disorders and risk of suicide in a general US population: a case control study. Addict Sci Clin Pract. 2020 Feb 21;15(1):14. doi: 10.1186/s13722-020-0181-1. PMID: 32085800; PMCID: PMC7035727.
  • https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/birthsdeathsandmarriages/deaths/bulletins/drugrelateddeathsandsuicideinoffendersinthecommunityenglandandwales/2011to2021