Suicidal ideation and correlates in Taiwanese adolescent methamphetamine users.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of suicidal ideation and its correlates in adolescent methamphetamine (MAMP) users. Using the Epidemiological Version of the Kiddie Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia, 200 adolescent MAMP users were assessed for suicidal ideation and psychiatric disorders during the preceding year. Demographic variables, family and peer interaction, characteristics of MAMP use, and personality were also evaluated. Factors correlating to suicidal ideation in adolescent MAMP users were analyzed by logistic regression. In the preceding year, 16% of adolescent MAMP users had suicidal ideation, and multiple factors, including illicit drug use among family members, depressive disorder, adjustment disorder, and emotional instability, correlated with suicidal ideation. Multiple factors, including family, psychopathology, and personality correlate with suicidal ideation in adolescent MAMP users. Subjects showing these characteristics should be monitored for suicidal ideation.