A new study finds that the majority of firearm suicide deaths in the United States are caused by unsecured handguns. The study, published in the American Journal of Public Health, used data from the National Violent Death Reporting System to examine trends in suicide deaths by firearms from 2006 to 2016.
The study found that 60% of all firearm suicide deaths during that time period were caused by unsecured handguns. In contrast, only 7% of firearm suicide deaths were caused by long guns, such as rifles and shotguns.
The study’s authors say that the findings underscore the importance of gun safety measures, such as safe storage of firearms. They note that previous research has shown that many suicides are impulsive acts, and that access to a gun can make it much easier for someone to act on suicidal thoughts.
The authors say that their findings also have implications for suicide prevention efforts. They say that it is important to target interventions at high-risk groups, such as people with a history of mental illness or substance abuse.
A new study has found that the majority of firearm suicide deaths in the United States are caused by unsecured handguns.
The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Michigan, looked at data from the National Violent Death Reporting System from 2003 to 2016. They found that 60 percent of all firearm suicide deaths during that time period were caused by handguns that were not secured with a lock.
The findings highlight the importance of responsible gun ownership and the need for better gun safety education. Suicide is a preventable tragedy, and it is crucial that people who are at risk for harming themselves have limited access to firearms.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out for help. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides 24/7 support for people in crisis. You can call them at 1-800-273-8255.
