The connection between substance use and mental health disorders in adolescents has been a topic of concern for parents, educators, and healthcare professionals alike. A recent study conducted by researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and the University of Minnesota has shed new light on this critical issue, revealing that high school students who use alcohol, cannabis, or nicotine are at a higher risk for mental health disorders, including suicidal thoughts and symptoms of anxiety and depression.
The study, published in JAMA Pediatrics, analyzed survey results from over 15,000 high school students in Massachusetts from the 2022–2023 period. The findings were clear: substance use was dose-dependently associated with various psychiatric symptoms, and these associations did not significantly differ depending on the type of substance used. Senior author Randi M. Schuster, Ph.D., emphasized the importance of understanding these trends, stating, “We sought to determine whether substance use was dose-dependently associated with various psychiatric symptoms in a large sample if high school students, and whether these associations differed depending on the type of substance used.”
The results were alarming. Thoughts of suicide were approximately five times more prevalent among students who used substances daily or near daily compared to their non-using peers. Furthermore, even adolescents with relatively low levels of use showed an increase in psychiatric symptoms. Brenden Tervo-Clemmens, Ph.D., lead author of the study, highlighted the significance of these findings, “Our study’s results highlight the prevalence of psychiatric co-morbidities among young people who use substances.”
Experts in the field, such as Dr. Christopher J. Hammond and Dr. Maria H. Rahmandar, have weighed in on the study’s implications. While acknowledging the known association between substance use and mental health conditions, they also point out the complexities of the relationship. Dr. Hammond noted the study’s limitation in not accounting for the use of multiple substances, which is common among adolescents.
For parents, this study underscores the critical need for early and open conversations about substance use and mental health. Starting discussions as early as age 9 and maintaining open lines of communication can help guide adolescents through these challenges. If a child expresses suicidal thoughts, it is vital to take them seriously and seek immediate help.
The research team is continuing their work, with Schuster leading a study that will survey individual students over time to gain further insights into the relationship and timing of substance use and psychiatric symptoms. This ongoing research aims to develop interventions to better protect adolescents’ mental health.
This study not only contributes to our understanding of the risks associated with adolescent substance use but also calls for comprehensive screening, prevention, intervention, and policy efforts that address the multifaceted mental health needs of young people. As we move forward, it is clear that a holistic approach is necessary to safeguard the well-being of our youth.
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Students who report using alcohol, cannabis or nicotine at higher risk for mental health disorders, survey shows
Study: High school students who use alcohol, cannabis or nicotine are at higher risk for mental health disorders. What parents should know.
High school students who report using alcohol, cannabis or nicotine at higher risk for suicidal thoughts and other mental health disorders
