For many who struggle with substance use disorders, there exists an increased risk of suicide. But how are suicide and addiction linked? Several factors contribute to suicide, and many overlap with those of addiction. Read on to explore the connection between addiction and suicide, and how suicidal ideation and addiction can be treated as co-occurring disorders.
Several key factors can be attributed to a higher risk of suicidal ideation, and many are the same factors linked to a higher occurrence of substance abuse and drug addiction.
Many risk factors of suicide are also linked to substance abuse. It’s common for individuals with suicidal thoughts to also have a co-occurring substance use disorder (SUD). When exploring the risk factors of suicide, it’s important to note the overlap between those of SUD.
When exploring the connection between suicide and substance abuse, it’s important to note that certain populations are linked to higher suicide rates, suicidal thoughts, substance abuse, and drug addiction. Younger adults who attempt or commit suicide are also more likely to also have a substance use disorder.3
There are many effective methodologies to treat suicidal ideation as a co-occurring disorder with substance abuse. Seeking the help of a mental health professional through therapy or counseling can allow an individual to navigate their emotions, recover from trauma, and make healthier choices.
Help is also possible through the education and support of various suicide prevention groups and mental health organizations. There are groups specifically to support at-risk populations with higher suicide rates, as well as groups that focus on the education and prevention of certain suicide methods. For some, treatment may involve prescribed medication by their healthcare provider to best manage the symptoms of mental health disorders that increase the risk of suicide or addiction.
Gregory Ng is the CEO of Brooks Bell. In his nearly 25 years in marketing, Greg has created innovative solutions leading to digital and cognitive transformations for the biggest high-tech, retail and financial brands in the world. Greg adds knowledge in marketing strategy, content production, and brand awareness to the AHV advisory board.
Hunt Broyhill holds several positions within the Broyhill family offices and serves as President, Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer of BMC Fund and Chief Executive Officer of Broyhill Asset Management. Hunt brings valuable experience in capital allocation, real estate, and investor relations to the AHV advisory board.
Alan Hughes was formerly the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina. In addition to BCBS, Alan held officer positions in both operations and technology at GE Commercial Finance, Deutsche Bank, and American Express. Alan brings a unique combination of efficient process design and technological problem solving to the AHV advisory board.
Lynn is the CEO of Broadstep. Previously, Lynn held various roles in both healthcare and finance where she oversaw multi-site, multi-state organizations within primary care, acute and chronic services, hospitals, and pharmacies. Lynn brings valuable experience in healthcare leadership, recruiting, and growth strategy to the AHV advisory board.
John Roos is the retired Senior Vice President and Chief Growth Officer for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina. Under Roos’s tenure, the company’s revenue grew from $1.5 billion to $9.5 billion, while adding 1 million members. John brings valuable experience in growth strategy, enterprise sales, and provider contracting to the AHV advisory board.
Dr. Hendree Jones is the Executive Director of UNC-Horizons and an internationally recognized expert in behavioral and pharmacologic treatments for pregnant women and their children. Dr. Jones has received continuous funding from the National Institutes of Health since 1994 and has over 200 peer-reviewed publications. Dr. Jones is an advisor to the UN, WHO, SAMHSA, ASAM, and ACOG through which she consults throughout the United States and internationally. Dr. Jones brings valuable experience in grant writing, research, and healthcare administration to the AHV advisory board.
Brad is the CEO Emeritus for BCBSNC and Chair of the BCBSNC Foundation. He served as Gov. Jim Hunt’s general counsel and is a past chair of the UNC Board of Governors. Brad serves on numerous public and private boards and is a lifelong North Carolinian with degrees from Appalachian State, Wake Forest, and Duke. He brings valuable experience in healthcare, law, higher education, and politics.
Jake Summers is a passionate entrepreneur who is dedicated to bringing the energy of change to existing healthcare business models and making higher quality healthcare more accessible. Jake co-founded a mango farming/export company in Cambodia and serves as an advisor for a number of small businesses. Jake is the co-founder of Advaita Integrated Medicine and is the Development Director and a Partner of Green Hill.
Tripp Johnson is a serial healthcare entrepreneur who’s dedicated his post-military professional life to serving young adults. He is the co-founder of Advaita Integrated Medicine, Advaita Health Ventures, and Green Hill Recovery. Tripp is passionate about making quality healthcare more affordable and accessible through innovative business models and technology-focused solutions.