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In Memoriam—Donald H.
In a blink of an eye, you realize that drugs are really a part of your life. I thought that since I didn't do them, they could never hurt me. That is until last week when I received a call that someone I loved very much had overdosed. He was so smart, creative, funny and lovable. He was the person in my life who was always up to do whatever or go wherever. My heart will ache eternally.
- Whittney S.
Source: Partnership for a Drug-Free America®, www.drugfree.org
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Drug-related deaths have more than doubled since the early 1980s. There are more deaths, illness, and disabilities from substance abuse than from any other preventable health condition. Today, one in four deaths is attributable to alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drug use.
| Selected Research Findings on Drug Abuse-Related Mortality |
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Substance Use Disorders Related to Attempted Suicide in Adolescents
This study examined the effects of psychiatric disorders on attempted suicide among adolescents with substance use disorders (SUD). Age of onset for psychiatric disorders, age of first suicide attempt, and the relationship of psychiatric disorder with attempted suicide were investigated in a sample of 503 adolescents with DSM-IV defined SUD (age range: 12.2-19.0 years). Results indicated that males who attempted suicide had a significantly earlier onset of alcohol use disorders (AUD) and significantly more mood, AUD, and disruptive behavior disorder symptoms compared to non-attempting males. Females who attempted suicide had a significantly earlier onset and higher counts of mood disorders and SUD symptoms compared to non-attempting females. Hazard analysis revealed that mood disorders represent the highest psychiatric risk for attempted suicide in both the genders. Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) increased the risk for attempted suicide among males. The interaction of mood disorder and AUD increased the risk for attempted suicide among females. The investigators conclude that clinicians should closely monitor SUD adolescents for suicide risk and be aware of gender differences for suicidal behavior based on course and severity of psychiatric disorder in this population. Kelly, T.M., Cornelius, J.R. and Clark, D.B. Psychiatric Disorders and Attempted Suicide Among Adolescents with Substance Use Disorders. Drug And Alcohol Dependence, 73(1), pp. 87-97, 2004.
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