Suicide Prevention: Means Matter – Remove the Risk

With nine out of ten suicide attempts using firearms being fatal (medpagetoday.com), this is a very serious consequence of an unsecured firearm. As stated by the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, “Suicide with a gun is often an irreversible solution to what is often a passing crisis.”

Limiting access to a lethal weapon in times of crisis saves lives. ”People who attempt suicide often face a cascade of problems. Empirical evidence suggests that they act in a moment of brief but heightened vulnerability.” (hsph.harvard.edu) Those who survive an attempt seldom go on to die by suicide.

The firearm suicide rate among our youth, veterans, and first responders is increasing at an alarming rate. (particularly youth of color). Suicide was seriously considered by 30% of teen girls surveyed. That is double the rate of boys and almost 60% higher than a decade ago. (cdc.com) Teens are impulsive and may decide on suicide in as little as 10 minutes prior to acting and firearms are used in 40% of all suicides among 10 to 17 year olds.

Don’t be afraid to have the conversation about suicide if you feel someone you know is in crisis. The National Suicide Hotline is 1-800-273-8255. Call, text or chat 988 to be connected. You may be able to help them secure the immediate help they need.