INTRODUCTION: Several previous studies have documented a relationship between sleep problems and suicide. However, this association has not been explored specifically among opioid users. Given that studies have suggested that opioids can interrupt sleep and that opioid users are more likely to attempt suicide than non-users, it is important to further investigate the association between sleep disturbance and suicidal ideation, planning, and attempts among opioid abusers.

METHODS: Data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health 2010-2014 survey were analyzed to assess whether there was an association between sleep problems and suicidal ideation, planning and attempts among individuals who report abusing opioid medications. Prevalence of opioids abusers by demographic characteristics, odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals unadjusted and adjusted by age, gender & mental health disorders were reported.

RESULTS: Results indicated that opioids abuse was higher in ages 18 to 25 years. Results of 2011 unadjusted and adjusted analyses showed significant associations between sleep disturbance and suicidal planning. Results of 2012 adjusted analyses showed significant associations between sleep disturbance and suicidal attempts. Results of 2013 unadjusted and adjusted analyses showed significant association between sleep disturbance and suicidal ideation among opioids abusers.

DISCUSSION: This research provided some evidence of an association between sleep disturbances and suicidal ideations, planning and attempts among opioids abusers using NSDUH data. This study’s findings can be beneficial for educational and public health prevention programs to promote a better understanding of sleep disturbance, suicidal ideation, planning, and attempts among opioid abusers. More research can help to find risk factors and achieve overall mission of harm reduction among opioids abusers.