Suicide can be an uncomfortable topic of discussion, and there are many reasons behind that. Sometimes it’s the concern around not interrupting a bereavement process, or it’s unclear as to what is appropriate to say. Sometimes it just hurts too much to verbalize. It’s all very relatable from one angle or another, and overall, heartbreaking. However, to protect our very family, friends, neighbors, classmates, and acquaintances, the discussion needs to continue.

In the United States alone, an average of nearly 100 people commit suicide daily. Of these, roughly 50% are accounted for by firearms, and 15% involve overdoses or poisoning. However, while overdoses account for a small percentage of suicides, it accounts for 80% of attempts, suggesting access to lethal means, such as firearms, may increase overall fatality.

As such, access to lethal means is a significant contributor to whether or not a suicide attempt results in a loss of life. Acting impulsively on an ideation can either be fatal and irreversible, given lethal means or, given less lethal means, a slower process that allows help to arrive. This is not a comment on the right to possess arms, rather a PSA for those at risk for suicide who also have easy access to these arms.

“Evidence from many countries and cultures shows that limiting access to lethal means and methods of self-harm is an effective strategy to prevent self-destructive behaviors in certain individuals”. -National Strategy for Suicide Prevention, 2001

Gunshot wounds are instant, more often than not fatal, and irreversible. Given a suicidal impulse in a scenario without access to firearms, the attempt must be either with less lethal means or be delayed altogether allowing time for intervention, which statistically leads to fewer deaths.

Reducing access to lethal means is only one way to prevent suicide.

For every death by suicide, there are approximately 25 attempts. Another contributor is the existing stigma about asking for help. It’s as if mental health is a measure of strength, which is absolutely not the case. Suicide can be the result of a number of psychological disorders such as Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, and Substance Abuse.

About 18% of American adults experience mental disorders, and 21% of children/adolescents do, too. Psychological disorders are not uncommon, nor does it reflect the inner strength of an individual. But still, too many times we wish people had simply reached out and told someone how they were feeling.

Talking about suicide actually reduces the risk. It breaks the silence, and initiates discourse. No matter what, being supportive and available is key.

Signs to look for:

• Talking about suicide
• Prior suicide attempts
• Engaging in reckless behavior
• Social withdrawal
• Substance abuse
• Recent triggering events

What to do if you’re worried:

• Ask about suicidal ideation.
• If an individual is or has considered suicide recently, ask for specifics, such as a plan. Take everything seriously, and use judgment if you’re unsure. Nonetheless, about 40% of suicides happen without a plan, in which case, ensuring there is no access to lethal means is a priority to lessen the fatality of impulsive attempts.
• Direct anyone at risk to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline which offers trained support 24/7 (1-800-273-8255).
• Another resource is Teen Link, a phone line specifically for young people who aren't comfortable opening up to adults. People are available to chat online or talk over the phone (1-866-833-6546) between 6 pm and 10 pm PST every day of the year.
• In an emergency, call 911. It’s better to bring in professional help than to try and handle it all on your own. Time is everything.
• Above all, have the discussions, listen, support, and if you notice something that just feels off, investigate. It’s better to give some of your time if it means saving a life.