Citation

Hussain B, Khalily MT, Khalily MA. J. Pak. Med. Assoc. 2022; 72(4): 616-619.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2022, Pakistan Medical Association)

DOI

10.47391/JPMA.791

PMID

35614588

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To elucidate the possible association between suicidal tendencies and psychiatric symptoms associated with anabolic androgenic steroid usage among athletes.

METHODS: The cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2016 to July 2017 in Rawalpindi and Wah Canttonment, Pakistan, after approval from the International Islamic University, Islamabad, and comprised male athletes aged >18 years. Those using androgenic anabolic steroid formed group A, while the non-users were in group B. In addition to demographics, data was collected using Beck Scale for Suicidal Ideation and the Symptoms Checklist-90. Data was analysed using SPSS 22.

RESULTS: Of the 60 subjects, there were 30 (50%) in each of the two groups. The majority were aged 24-26 years 41 (68.30%). Group A scored significantly higher compared to group B on suicidal ideation, had more interpersonal problems, depression, hostility, paranoia and psychoticism (p<0.05). Unemployment and low household income increased steroid usage (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS: There was found to be a significant association of anabolic androgenic steroid use with suicidal tendencies and mental health issues.

Language: en

Keywords

Humans; Cross-Sectional Studies; Male; Steroids; Athletes; *Suicidal Ideation; *Anabolic Agents/adverse effects; Performance enhancement drugs, Testosterone, Suicide, Psychopathology, Sportsman.; Testosterone Congeners/adverse effects