Suicide attempts among individuals with opiate dependence: the critical role of belonging

Addict Behav. 2007 Jul;32(7):1395-404. doi: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2006.09.012. Epub 2006 Nov 13.

Abstract

This study explored the role of three theoretically important interpersonal variables in attempted suicide and unintentional overdose using a diverse sample of one hundred thirty-one (69 women) methadone patients at an urban university hospital. Subjects completed a standardized interview including self-report measures of perceived 1) belonging 2) burdensomeness, and 3) loneliness. In separate multivariate logistic regression analyses, individuals with a history of attempted suicide were compared to non-attempters, and individuals with a history of unintentional overdose were compared to individuals without such a history. As hypothesized, low belonging distinguished suicide attempters but not individuals with a history of unintentional overdose, after accounting for covariates. Results concerning burdensomeness and suicide attempt were also suggestive. Findings underscore the relevance of a sense of belonging to vulnerability to suicidal behavior, and lend further support to the notion that suicide attempts and unintentional overdose have dissimilar correlates.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Drug Overdose
  • Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Interpersonal Relations
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Opioid-Related Disorders / epidemiology*
  • Opioid-Related Disorders / psychology*
  • Peer Group*
  • Social Behavior*
  • Substance Abuse, Intravenous / epidemiology
  • Substance Abuse, Intravenous / psychology
  • Suicide, Attempted / psychology*
  • Suicide, Attempted / statistics & numerical data*