How Churches Can Address a Growing Suicide Threat in Young Adults

Our bodies are holy temples (1 Cor. 6:19). It would make sense as believers to take care of it. Whether it’s drugs, alcohol, caffeine, sugar, food, or anything consumed, we should always be mindful of its effects on us.

In recent years, marijuana legalization has made it more accessible than ever to the public, especially to young adults. According to a study from Lifeway Research, 18% of pastors surveyed say marijuana should be legalized throughout the country for any purpose and 6% are not sure. Although a small percentage, that’s still 24% of pastors who are indirectly advocating for marijuana use or not making a stand either way. Pastors and leaders need to aware of the research and ramifications of marijuana use as more information comes to light.

A new study conducted by researchers at the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) suggests a connection between marijuana use and suicide in young adults. Surveying more than 280,000 young adults ages 18-35, marijuana use and increased risks of thoughts of suicide (suicidal ideation), suicide plan, and suicide attempt are seen to be linked.

“Among people with depression, 35% of people who did not use cannabis had suicidal ideation, compared to 44% of those with nondaily cannabis use, 53% of those who used cannabis daily, and 50% of those who had a cannabis use disorder …

Among individuals without a major depressive episode, the prevalence of suicidal ideation for those with vs. without a cannabis use disorder was 13.9% vs. 3.5% among women and 9.9% vs. 3.0% among men.”

Suicide and suicidal thoughts are on the rise, especially after a global pandemic, and especially with marijuana use increasing. Young adult ministries need to be aware and informed. What are some steps needed to prepare for such staggering news? Read More

A word of caution is warranted here. The author of this article appears to infer a causative relationship between marijuana use and suicide in young adults in her interpretation of the NIDA research findings. The connection between marijuana use and suicide in young adults, however, may be the other way around.  I have worked with suicidal patients, including adolescents and young adults. The deeper a suicidal patient's depression, the greater the likelihood that they will resort to drugs and alcohol to relieve their pain. The link may be that the more suicidal a young adult is, the more likely they are to use marijuana and other recreational drugs. These drugs can affect mood. They can also impair judgment. While under the influence of certain drugs, including alcohol, someone who is suicidal is likely to act impulsively.  People tend to loose their inhibitions when they are under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. This includes any inhibitions against killing themselves.