Factors associated with drug-related psychiatric disorders and suicide attempts among illicit drug users in Taiwan

Subst Use Misuse. 2012 Aug;47(10):1185-8. doi: 10.3109/10826084.2012.690812. Epub 2012 Jun 5.

Abstract

Illicit drug users, entering a detention center and two psychiatric hospitals in Northern Taiwan, were interviewed for lifetime drug-use-related psychiatric disorders and suicide attempts. Among 197 participants, 17.3%, 16.8%, and 14.2% had a drug-induced psychotic disorder (DIP), a drug-induced mood disorder (DIM), and a history of suicide attempts, respectively. Continuous use of methamphetamine and joblessness were associated with DIP and DIM, accordingly. Polysubstance use was collectively correlated with DIP and DIM. Female gender and history of having any mood disorder were predictors of suicide. These results provide useful clues for detecting drug-related psychiatric disorders and suicide among illicit drug users. The study's limitations are noted.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Central Nervous System Stimulants / adverse effects
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Female
  • Heroin / adverse effects
  • Humans
  • Illicit Drugs / poisoning*
  • Interview, Psychological
  • Male
  • Mental Disorders / chemically induced*
  • Methamphetamine / adverse effects
  • Risk Factors
  • Substance-Related Disorders
  • Suicide, Attempted / psychology*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Taiwan
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Central Nervous System Stimulants
  • Illicit Drugs
  • Methamphetamine
  • Heroin