Suicide is something we just don’t talk about. We hear about it when someone famous or someone in our community dies from it, but we don’t talk about it. There’s some thought that if we talk about it, we’ll give someone the idea, but that’s ridiculous. If someone is dealing with issues that lead down that road, they’re already thinking about it. And oddly enough, talking about it, especially if we’re supportive and not flippant or judgmental about it, can actually help that person find a better solution to what’s hurting them.
And as gun owners, we also have to be cognizant of the accessibility of our firearms. There are many ways a person can die by suicide, but guns are the choice that leads to the highest percentage of fatal attempts.
Keep them locked up. If they’re not concealed somewhere on your person, lock your firearms away. Make them hard to get to, especially if you have young people living in your house. Contrary to popular belief, most people who attempt suicide don’t actually want to die. Most think, in that moment of internal chaos, that it’s their only option. But if given a chance to think about it, they usually find a better solution.
I know this is a deeper subject than what I usually talk about. And it’s about to get even deeper. If you are struggling with thoughts of suicide, and you’re the keeper of the safe combination, talk to someone. Talk to a counselor or therapist. Be honest about your feelings and talk to someone you are close to. Or call 988 on your phone and talk to the suicide and crisis lifeline folks. Talk to someone about what you’re feeling.
We need you here, with us, in our community. Stay with us.
