Dear John,
Today, on World Suicide Prevention Day, we pause to reflect on the lives lost, the survivors, and the countless individuals who struggle with suicidal thoughts every day. At the Alliance, we believe that suicide is preventable, and by working together, we can create a world where every life is valued and protected.
Firearm suicide is a growing public health crisis in America. On average, we lose 74 people to firearm suicide every single day — which is more than are lost to firearm murders and unintentional shootings combined. These are heartbreaking statistics and ones that we are working every day to change.
In Washington State, we’ve made significant strides, and recent data show that Washington`s firearm suicide prevention policies have contributed to a decrease in firearm suicide. Between 2019 and 2020 (the most recent period for which full data is available), firearm suicides decreased by 4 percent in Washington while increasing by 1.5 percent nationally.
While this progress gives us hope, we know that every single life lost is a tragedy, and we have more work to do. Firearm suicides account for more than half of all suicide deaths nationwide, and the presence of a gun in a home increases the likelihood of suicide by threefold. For many, quick access to a firearm can mean the difference between life and death in a moment of crisis.
One of the most harmful myths about suicide is that it is not preventable–that an individual experiencing suicidal thoughts will always “find a way” to take their own life. But that is just not true. It is a myth that our gun lobby opponents have pushed as a way to block reasonable policies to help remove the threat of firearms from people who are struggling.
The truth is the vast majority of people who survive a suicide attempt do not go on to die by suicide. And that is why the role of firearms is so important. Nine in 10 suicide attempts with a firearm are fatal, which means too few people experience a second chance for treatment and recovery. It also means that securing firearms in the short term can mean saving a life in the long term.
That’s why we must keep pushing forward. With your support, we can continue advocating for comprehensive gun safety measures and lifesaving interventions that ensure those in crisis have the help and resources they need. Please visit our website to learn more about suicide prevention and ways you can get involved.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which provides 24/7 free and confidential support. Call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org.
Thanks for taking the time to read. Our hearts are with all of those whose lives have been impacted by suicide.
