Imagine watching someone you love struggle after a divorce, a lost job, or a period of depression that won’t lift. You see the warning signs and want to help. And in the home, within reach, is an unsecured gun.
Here in Washington, firearm suicide is a prevalent and growing threat.
Three-in-four of all gun deaths in Washington are suicides, and gun suicide also poses a significant risk to children and teens in our state, who almost always acquire the firearm at home.
These statistics are devastating, but also point to opportunities for prevention.
Data shows that firearm suicide is often impulsive, not pre-meditated, and any barriers we can create – from waiting periods for firearm purchases to simple secure storage requirements – can put enough time and distance between a person in crisis and a firearm. That time and distance can be enough for someone to begin getting the help they need.
This Suicide Prevention Month, let’s talk openly about firearm access, secure storage, and the practical steps that can help keep people alive long enough for a crisis to pass.
There are two concrete things you can do:
- Secure your firearm today and talk to friends and family with firearms about the importance of secure storage.
- Learn about how Extreme Risk Protection Orders work so when you see a loved one in crisis and you know they have a firearm, you can help.
If you or someone you love is struggling, help is available. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is free, confidential, and available 24/7 by call or text.
Our work to prevent gun deaths at the Alliance is made possible thanks to support from people like you. If you’d like to join our efforts, you can click here to donate.
Thank you,
– Alliance for Gun Responsibility
ALLIANCE FOR GUN RESPONSIBILITY
P.O. Box 4187 Seattle, WA 98194