Youth Self-Harm, Substance Use, and Suicide Risk: What the Data Actually Show | Epi 6

In this episode, Dr. O examines how self-harm, substance use, and emotional dysregulation interact to increase risk in adolescents and young adults.Drawing on the Global Burden of Disease Study 2025, this discussion highlights how mental disorders, substance use, and self-harm are leading contributors to disability in ages 10–24.Key topics include:Substance use as a major risk factor for suicidal thoughts and behaviorsEmotional dysregulation and impulsivitySocial media and behavioral risk patternsClinical implications for screening and early interventionFeatured research includes:Xu et al., Translational Psychiatry 2025Jones et al., Substance Abuse 2023López-Martínez et al., Behavioral Sciences 2025RESOURCES:If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call emergency services (911 in the U.S.) right away.*U.S.: Call or text 988 (Suicide and Crisis Lifeline) OR Chat via 988lifeline.org*International: Visit findahelpline.com to find local resourcesYou are not alone. Help is available.