Suicide risk among young people who use drugs in Hanoi, Vietnam: Prevalence and related factors

Aim

Adolescents and young adults are vulnerable to suicidality, especially those at high risk such as young people who use drugs (YPUD). This study aimed to assess the prevalence and related factors of suicide risk among this population.

Methods

We conducted a descriptive, cross-sectional study on YPUD aged 16–24 in the community in Hanoi, Vietnam. Data on socio-demographic characteristics, drug use, and adverse childhood experiences were collected using face-to-face questionnaires by research assistants. YPUD were screened by psychiatrists for depression, psychotic symptoms, and suicide risk, using the MINI questionnaire.

Results

Three hundred-seven YPUD (250 males, 57 females) participated in the study; of those, 86 (28.0%) were at risk of suicide. Gender (female), adverse childhood experiences, depression, and psychosis were relevant factors.

Conclusion

The prevalence of suicide risk among young people using drugs was high. Therefore, suicide risk should be screened and monitored in the clinical assessment of this population. In addition, the intervention efforts to detect and intervene in adverse events during childhood may be one way to prevent mental health and suicide in later life.