How Alcohol and Suicide are connected – A Fact Sheet

The MHCC partnered with the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA) to examine what is currently known about the relationship between alcohol use and suicide, who is most affected, and how to effectively reduce risk. In 2023, Canada’s Guidance on Alcohol and Health was updated to reflect the latest evidence to minimize health risks, including those related to mental health and suicide prevention.

Understanding the factors that contribute to suicide risk is crucial for prevention. Suicide is often the result of a complex interplay of various factors, including mental health conditions, history of trauma or abuse, chronic illness or pain, social factors, and personal stressors. Another significant factor is alcohol use, which can influence mental health and suicidal behaviour.

How does alcohol use increase risk of suicide?

Alcohol is a depressant. However, it can have both stimulating and sedating effects. The effects can vary from person to person and depend on how much alcohol is consumed. Stimulating effects may include impulsivity and aggression, while sedating effects may include feelings of sadness and despair. Alcohol can reduce a person’s awareness of their negative emotions and impair their ability to use healthy coping skills to manage stressful situations. Both effects harm someone experiencing suicidal thoughts by reducing their inhibition and increasing the risk that they will move from suicidal ideation to an attempt.

Ways to reduce risk

• Reflect on the risk associated with alcohol use and consider how it may affect you.
• Be aware of your own limits and monitor your alcohol intake.
• Consider your emotional state before you drink alcohol.
• Consider your social network and their drinking habits.
• Find alternatives to drinking alcohol. Think about your reasons for drinking.
• Seek learning opportunities about the impact of alcohol use and suicide on individuals, families, and communities.
• Talk openly with your friends and family about alcohol use and suicide.
• Help to reduce stigma by knowing the facts about the impacts of alcohol on suicidal thoughts, behaviours, and death by suicide.