Adolescent’s substance use and suicidal thoughts in Tunisia

Abstract Background Experimentation with substance use is common during adolescence. Substance use may result in many health-related problems and contribute to adolescent suicidal behavior. We conducted this study to examine the relationship between substance use and suicidal ideation. Methods This...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:European journal of public health 2019-11, Vol.29 (Supplement_4)
Main Authors: El Ghardallou, M, Sahli, J, Mellouli, M, Limam, M, Zedini, C, Mezougui, L, Mtiraoui, A, Ajmi, T, Mannai, J
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Adolescents
Alcohol
Cannabis
Cross-sectional studies
Drug use
Experimentation
Experiments
Marijuana
Mental health
Public health
Schools
Secondary schools
Substance use
Suicidal behavior
Suicide
Suicides & suicide attempts
Teenagers
Tobacco
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Summary:Abstract Background Experimentation with substance use is common during adolescence. Substance use may result in many health-related problems and contribute to adolescent suicidal behavior. We conducted this study to examine the relationship between substance use and suicidal ideation. Methods This is a cross sectional study conducted among a representative sample of 2020 adolescents enrolled in Tunisian secondary schools using a self-administered questionnaire. Results The prevalence of tobacco, alcohol and cannabis use was respectively 3.7% (95% CI [2.87%-4.52%]), 4.4% (95% CI [3.5%-5.29%]) and 0.8% (95% CI [0.40%-1.18%]) Overall, 17.0% (95% CI [15.3%-18.6%]) reported having suicide ideation during the past 12 months. Tobacco (Odds Ratio = 2.61; 95% CI = 1.59–4.29), alcohol (Odds Ratio = 2.77; 95% CI = 1.76–4.36), and cannabis use (Odds Ratio = 4.98; 95% CI = 1.85–13.96) were significantly associated with suicidal thoughts among adolescents (p < 10-3). Conclusions This cross study has shown a significant association between substance use and suicidal ideation. This relationship can be bidirectional and suicidal ideation and substance use may affect each other. Key messages In his study, the prevalence of substance use was relatively low and was associated with suicidal ideations. The reciprocal link between the two problems and their co-occurrence should be taken into account when planning preventive substance use and suicide programs.
ISSN:1101-1262
1464-360X
DOI:10.1093/eurpub/ckz187.197