Written by:

Medically Reviewed by:

Dr Mateen Durrani – MBBS, DPM, MSc, BCPsych

Last Updated:

February 14th, 2025

Suicide and Addiction

If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviours, please know that you are not alone and help is available. Reach out to your nearest mental health specialist or contact a helpline in your area for immediate support. You are valued and there are people who care about your well-being and want to help you through this difficult time.

What is suicidal behaviour?

Suicidal behaviour isn’t always as obvious as people might think. While some signs are clear and direct, others can be much harder to spot. What someone shows on the outside might differ greatly from what they feel inside. That’s why learning about these signs can help you recognise when someone might be struggling, even if they aren’t openly expressing it.

Common signs of suicidal behaviour

Withdrawal from loved ones

When someone pulls away from family and friends, it might seem like they need space or time to themselves. However, this distancing could mean they’re feeling emotionally overwhelmed. They might avoid phone calls, cancel plans or retreat to their room for long periods, showing little interest in connecting with others.

Giving away possessions

If a person starts giving away items they once valued, such as treasured jewellery, sentimental keepsakes or even everyday belongings, it could be more than an act of kindness. They may be trying to tie up loose ends, believing they won’t need these things anymore, even if they never explain why.

Talking about feeling hopeless

Comments like “Nothing matters anymore,” “I’m a burden,” or “I can’t see a way out” shouldn’t be dismissed as passing remarks. These statements can reflect intense emotional pain and a feeling of being trapped with no clear solution. Even if said casually or with a hint of humour, they can be cries for help.

Sudden mood changes

Experiencing sudden shifts from deep sadness or anxiety to unexpected calmness can be concerning. This change might seem positive, but in some cases, it can indicate that the person has decided to end their life, which brings them a temporary sense of relief.

Engaging in risk-taking behaviour

Acting recklessly, such as driving dangerously, using drugs or engaging in risky activities without concern for safety, can signal a lack of regard for personal well-being. This behaviour might be their way of expressing inner turmoil when words seem too difficult to find.

Are suicide and addictions linked?

Suicide and addictions are deeply linked, but understanding how they connect can be complex. In some cases, suicidal thoughts may develop due to an addiction, while in others, addiction might be the result of trying to cope with those dark thoughts. The truth is, it can be either or both, creating a cycle that feels impossible to break.

When addiction fuels suicidal thoughts

Addiction often brings isolation, financial difficulties, broken relationships and declining physical and mental health. These struggles can push someone into a state of hopelessness where suicide might seem like the only escape.

For example:

Drug addiction: The intense highs and crushing lows from substance use can lead to severe emotional instability. Withdrawal symptoms and the fear of living without the drug can increase suicidal thoughts. Studies have shown that those with substance addictions significantly increase the risk of suicide, particularly for women.
Alcohol addiction: As a depressant, alcohol worsens depression and anxiety. Drinking may start as a way to numb pain but can spiral into a cycle of despair, amplifying suicidal ideation. Studies have found that those with an alcohol addiction have an increased risk of suicidal thoughts, attempts and fatalities among both young people and adults.

In these cases, the addiction itself can be the driving force behind suicidal tendencies, creating a dangerous and self-perpetuating cycle.

When suicidal thoughts lead to addiction

For some, addiction becomes a coping mechanism for dealing with constant mental health issues. Turning to drugs, alcohol, or other addictive behaviours might seem like a way to dull emotional pain or provide a temporary sense of relief.

For example:

Gambling addiction: A person dealing with depression might gamble compulsively to feel a momentary thrill, only to spiral into deeper despair when losses accumulate. Studies show that suicidal thoughts affect up to 81% of people seeking treatment for gambling addiction, highlighting how severe the emotional impact can be.
Sex or porn addiction: Feelings of shame, loneliness or rejection might drive someone to seek validation or comfort through risky or compulsive sexual behaviour, which can worsen emotional distress over time. Studies reveal that this addiction has one of the highest rates of suicide attempts among behavioural addictions.

In these situations, addiction is a response to underlying suicidal thoughts and mental health issues. This could be considered as the self-medication theory.

Can suicidal behaviours and addiction be treated together?

It’s possible to treat suicidal behaviours and addiction simultaneously, and many rehab centres, like Liberty House, are equipped to handle both issues through specialised co-occurring disorder programmes. However, for safety reasons, suicidal behaviours must be stabilised before starting addiction treatment. This ensures a safe environment for the individual and those around them. Seeking help from a mental health care professional to manage suicidal crises is often the first step toward recovery.

Once stabilised, Liberty House’s addiction rehabilitation programme can address both challenges, offering therapies designed to heal emotional wounds while treating addiction. Here’s how specific therapies can help:

Dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT)

DBT is highly effective for managing both suicidal behaviours and addiction. It focuses on helping individuals regulate overwhelming emotions, reduce harmful behaviours and improve relationships. By combining cognitive-behavioural techniques with mindfulness practices, DBT teaches healthier coping methods, making it a powerful tool in recovery.

Individual therapy

In a confidential and supportive setting, individual therapy helps people explore personal struggles related to suicidal tendencies and addiction. Therapists use evidence-based approaches to challenge destructive thoughts, build emotional resilience and uncover the underlying causes of addiction. This one-on-one support creates a space where deep emotional healing can occur.

Aftercare support

Recovery doesn’t end after rehab, as it’s an ongoing journey. Aftercare programmes provide continued support through group therapy and follow-up sessions. These meetings help individuals maintain progress, strengthen coping strategies and build a support network. Aftercare also acts as a safety net, reducing the risk of relapse into both addiction and suicidal behaviours.

What’s next?

If you or someone you love is battling addiction and struggling with suicidal thoughts, reaching out for professional help at Liberty House could be life-changing. We provide compassionate, expert care tailored to treat both conditions together. You don’t have to face this alone as help is available and recovery is possible. Take the first step toward a healthier, brighter future today and contact Liberty House.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you know if you are struggling with suicidal thoughts?

You may be struggling with suicidal thoughts if you frequently feel hopeless, believe life has no meaning or think about ending your life. Persistent sadness, withdrawal from loved ones and overwhelming emotional pain are key warning signs.

How to help someone dealing with suicidal thoughts?

Listen without judgement, express concern and encourage them to seek professional help. Avoid dismissing their feelings and offer support by helping them find mental health services. Be patient and remind them they’re not alone in their struggle.

What causes suicide?

Suicide can be triggered by a mix of factors, including mental health conditions like depression, addiction, trauma or significant life stressors. Feelings of hopelessness, emotional pain and lack of support often contribute to suicidal behaviours.

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