A new study by the UCLA Center for Health Policy Research (CHPR), based on data from the California Health Interview Survey (CHIS) conducted between 2022 and 2024, has found a strong association between substance use among adolescents and elevated levels of psychological distress and suicide risk, Medical Xpress reports.

The analysis included nearly 3,000 adolescents aged 12–17. Substance use was defined as the use of cannabis/THC, alcohol (including binge drinking episodes), e-cigarettes, or conventional cigarettes. Current use referred to the consumption of at least one of these substances during the previous month.

The findings showed that approximately 9% of California adolescents were classified as current substance users. Among this group, psychological distress was significantly more common: 46% reported experiencing moderate or severe psychological difficulties during the previous year, compared with 27% of non-users.

The most pronounced differences were observed when assessing suicide risk. Nearly half (47%) of adolescents who both experienced psychological distress and used substances reported suicidal thoughts or suicide attempts during the previous year. Among adolescents experiencing distress but not using substances, the figure was almost half as high, at 24%.

Overall, 10% of all surveyed adolescents reported suicidal thoughts or attempts during the previous year. Even among adolescents without psychological distress, substance use was associated with a higher risk: 8% reported suicidal thoughts or attempts, compared with 2% among non-users.

Additional analysis revealed that adolescents who had ever used alcohol or drugs were more than three times as likely to report suicidal thoughts or attempts as those who had never used substances (20% versus 6%).

The authors emphasize that the findings demonstrate associations rather than proven cause-and-effect relationships. Nevertheless, the results highlight a significant overlap between two major public health concerns: adolescent mental health problems and substance use.

Researchers note that early and regular substance use may negatively affect brain development and increase vulnerability to mental health disorders. However, it is also possible that adolescents with pre-existing psychological difficulties are more likely to turn to substances as a form of self-regulation.

The report underscores the need for comprehensive measures, including early identification of at-risk youth, integration of mental health and substance use treatment services, and improved access to adolescent support programs. The authors also stress the importance of prevention efforts and restricting minors’ access to psychoactive substances.