Resources to Help You Help Others

Suicide accounts for nearly two-thirds of all firearm deaths in the U.S., more than 23,000 annually — a sobering statistic. Myths about suicide sometimes get in the way of helping others. One of those myths is that a person in crisis who cannot access the means to do themselves harm will simply look for other means. Research tells us that a person is not likely to look for another way to die. There is a brief but intense period of despair leading to a suicidal crisis, and by putting time and distance between a person in crisis and their chosen method for suicide — such as by temporarily removing access to a firearm — can help to save a life.

Suicide is preventable. Knowing what to look for, having a brave conversation and helping promote the secure storage of firearms when not in use can make a huge difference to someone. The circumstances of a person’s life can change over time — sometimes quickly. At some point, you, your staff, customers, family members and friends may benefit from knowledge of suicide prevention.

What Leads to Suicide?

There’s no single cause. Suicide most often occurs when several stressors and health issues converge to create an experience of hopelessness and despair. Depression is the most common health condition associated with suicide, and is often undiagnosed or untreated. Most people who actively manage their mental health conditions lead fulfilling lives. Conditions like depression, anxiety and substance use problems, especially when unaddressed, increase risk for suicide.

Some People are More at Risk for Suicide than Others

Risk factors are characteristics or conditions that increase the chance that a person may try to take their life.

HEALTH FACTORS

Mental health conditions

  • Depression
  • Substance use problems
  • Bipolar disorder
  • Schizophrenia and psychosis
  • Personality traits of aggression, mood changes and poor relationships
  • Conduct disorder
  • Anxiety disorders (PTSD)

Serious or chronic health conditions and/or pain

Traumatic brain injury

ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS

Stressful life events, like rejection, divorce, financial crisis, or other life transition or loss

Prolonged stress, such as harassment, bullying, relationship problems or unemployment

Exposure to another person’s suicide, or to graphic or sensationalized accounts of suicide

Access to lethal means including firearms and drugs

HISTORICAL FACTORS

Previous suicide attempts

Family history of suicide

Childhood abuse, neglect or trauma

Take Suicide Warning Signs Seriously

Most people who take their lives exhibit one or more warning signs, either through what they say or what they do.

TALK

If a person talks about:

  • Killing themselves
  • Feeling hopeless
  • Having no reason to live
  • Being a burden to others
  • Feeling trapped
  • Unbearable pain

BEHAVIOR

Behaviors that may signal risk, especially if during a time of transition, stress or loss:

  • Increased use of alcohol or drugs
  • Looking for a way to end their lives, such as searching online for materials or means
  • Withdrawing from activities
  • Isolating from family and friends
  • Sleeping too little or too much
  • Visiting or calling people to say goodbye
  • Giving away prized possessions
  • Aggression
  • Fatigue

MOOD

People who are considering suicide often display one or more of the following moods:

  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Loss of interest
  • Irritability
  • Humiliation
  • Agitation/Anger
  • Relief/Sudden Improvement

Reaching Out Can Help Save a Life

  • SUICIDE IS A LEADING CAUSE OF DEATH, AND IT’S PREVENTABLE

    By keeping secure firearm storage in mind, you can help reduce the number of suicides involving firearms.
  • LEARN THE RISK FACTORS AND WARNING SIGNS OF SUICIDE

    If you are worried about a friend or family member, trust your gut and don’t wait for them to reach out.
  • LET THEM KNOW YOU CARE

    Ask them directly about suicide and encourage them to seek help. Talking about suicidal thoughts and showing concern will not put someone at greater risk.
  • IF YOU ARE CONCERNED ABOUT A LOVED ONE

    Always store firearms securely and consider temporary off-site storage for firearms when not in use.
  • IF YOU’RE GOING THROUGH A DIFFICULT TIME

    If lawful where you live, consider giving the firearms and gun lock keys to a trusted family member or friend.

Firearms Storage For Your Lifestyle

As a gun owner, you can choose from multiple options for safely storing and protecting your firearms when they’re not in use. Use this guide to determine which mechanism best suits your lifestyle, priorities and environment.  Download Safe Storage Infographic

These are just a few of the storage options available to firearms owners. For the greatest level of security, consider using a combination of safety mechanisms and educate family members about handling firearms properly.

CABLE LOCK
Price Range: $10–$50

A cable lock can be used on most firearms, allows for quick acess in an emergency and offers security from theft. The cable runs through the barrel or action of a firearm to prevent it from being accidentally fired, requiring either a key or combination to unlock it.

  • Affordable
  • Accessible
  • Theft deterrent

GUN CASE
Price Range: $10–$150

For those looking to conceal, protect or legally transport a registered firearm, a gun case is an affordable solution available in a variety of materials including plastic, fabric or metal. Be sure to lock it with an external device for added security.

  • Affordable
  • Portable
  • Protects from damage

LOCK BOX
Price Range: $25–$350

With integrated locks, storage boxes provide reliable protection for firearms, and allow gun owners to legally transport them outside of their home.

  • Portable
  • Accessible
  • Protects from damage

ELECTRONIC LOCK BOX
Price Range: $50–$350

Electronic lock boxes are an effective way to store or legally transport firearms, and they also prevent theft since only the person with the code can access the contents. Some electronic lock boxes are specially designed for quick access to stored firearms.

  • Portable
  • Theft deterrent
  • Protects from damage

FULL SIZE AND BIOMETRIC GUN SAFES
Price Range: $200–$2,500

A gun safe protects its contents from the elements and allows owners to safely store multiple firearms in one place. Gun safes of all sizes are now available with biometric options to ensure only certain people have access.

  • Theft deterrent
  • Protects from damage

VEHICLE STORAGE

CONSOLE STORAGE
Price Range: $250 - $300

A solution for those who need a truly secure place to store their firearm in a vehicle. These custom-fitted devices provide concealment to deter prying eyes and would-be thieves. Various access options are available, including biometric.

  • Theft deterrent
  • Accessible
  • Protects from damage

CARGO AREA STORAGE
Price Range: $500 - $1,500

Effective for transporting firearms to the range or field, cargo area storage models are available for sedans, SUVs and trucks. These devices allow for locked storage, concealment and protection from bumps and jostling.

  • Theft deterrent
  • Accessible
  • Protects from damage