Each year in the United States, the month of June is recognized as Gun Violence Awareness Month. It is a period dedicated to addressing the issue of gun violence and promoting solutions to prevent it. This year, June 6th is National Gun Violence Awareness Day. People are encouraged to wear orange on this day to show their support. Though gun violence deaths tend to focus on homicides, nearly 6 out of every 10 gun deaths are suicides. According to the Pew Research Center, in 2023, suicides accounted for roughly 58% of all gun-related deaths in the United States, with homicides making up 38%. Statistics from the CDC show that nearly 47,000 people died from gun-related injuries in 2023, with 27,300 of those being suicides. The gun suicide rate is now almost at an all-time high. There were 7.6 suicides using guns per 100,000 people in 2023, which is almost equal to the all-time record of 7.7 per 100,000 set in 1977.
The U.S. gun suicide rate is nearly 12 times higher than that of other high-income countries. Having access to a firearm triples one’s risk of death by suicide. The rate of firearm suicide in rural areas is 2.5 times higher than in urban areas. Men are more likely to die by a gun-related suicide than women.
So, what are some things that we can do to protect our loved ones who may be having suicidal thoughts? Store all guns unloaded, keep ammunition separately, teach your children about gun safety, keep guns in a locked cabinet out of reach, and keep the keys and combinations to the gun safes in a secure place. Simply hiding a firearm is not the best way to ensure your child’s safety because of natural curiosity; there is a strong chance that the child may find the gun and try to play with it.
The Jason Foundation is a valuable resource that is dedicated to the prevention of youth suicide through educational and awareness programs. At the website www.jasonfoundation.com, you can locate the nearest Jason Foundation Affiliate Office and learn about the warning signs and risk factors associated with people who may be struggling with mental health issues and suicidal ideation. Research shows that about 4 out of every 5 individuals considering suicide give some sign of their intentions, either verbally or behaviorally. Take the time to educate yourselves on the warning signs and risk factors associated with suicide. If you feel that your loved one is struggling, make sure to secure all firearms and other lethal means in a safe place.
Scott Knight
Senior Division Director and Education Specialist
The Jason Foundation
