Research has shown a positive association between depression and non-medical prescription pain reliever use. Given the connection of depression to suicidality, the current research question evaluates non-medical prescription pain reliever use as an indicator of suicidal thought. Using the 2011 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, our analysis found that non-medical use of pain relievers increased the odds for suicidal ideation (O.R. = 2.36). Future research is needed to understand the mechanisms underlying this link. Potential mechanisms include substance induced depression and non-medical pain reliever use in the context of conditions such as chronic pain
