John—Today is World Suicide Prevention Day. We can’t talk about the gun violence epidemic without talking about suicide: Suicide accounts for two-thirds of all gun deaths in the United States. In recognition of this day and Suicide Prevention Month, we want to address one of the most common myths about firearm suicide.

**If you are having thoughts of suicide, help is available 24 hours a day: Call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988.**

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 has been pushed by our gun lobby opponents as a way to block reasonable tools 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.

In Washington, we have established lifesaving tools aimed at addressing the intersection of firearms and suicide, including Extreme Risk Protection Orders, voluntary waivers, and more. Today, take a moment to learn more about firearm suicide and what you can do to prevent it: [link removed]

We can all play a part in keeping ourselves and our loved ones safe.

– Kristen (she/her)

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ALLIANCE FOR GUN RESPONSIBILITY
P.O. Box 4187
Seattle, WA 98194

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