Polydrug Use and Attempted Suicide Among Hispanic Adolescents in Puerto Rico

Abstract

This study was aimed at examining the relationship between suicidal attempts, polydrug use, and depression in adolescents. A sample of 691 adolescents and their parents were interviewed. Subjects who met the criteria for depression and those who used alcohol were significantly more likely to be suicidal attempters (OR = 6.8, p < 0.001; OR = 7.5, p < 0.001). Polydrug users were significantly more likely to attempt suicide (OR = 8.8, p = 0.032). Adolescents with mothers who met the criteria for depression were more likely to report suicide attempts (OR = 2.4, p = 0.069). Health professionals need to screen for polydrug use and depression to prevent future suicidal behaviors.

Keywords:

• adolescents
• Hispanic
• polydrug use
• Puerto Rico
• suicidal behavior

Acknowledgments

This publication was made possible by a grant from the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institute of Health (NIDA Grant Num. RO1 DA15301). Its content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the NIH.

Notes

Note. T1 = Baseline. Suicide attempts percentages not equal 100% of sample because of missing data.

Note. T1 = Baseline; T2 = 12-months follow-up; CIDI = Composite International Diagnostic Interview.

Note. T1 = Baseline; T2 = 12-months follow-up; CIDI = Composite International Diagnostic Interview; OR = odd ratios; CI = confidence interval.