GVPanorama: Suicides Make Up Majority of Gun Deaths, but Remain Overlooked in Gun Violence Debate
Raising awareness means having conversations about the often uncomfortable topic
This Suicide Prevention Month may be coming to a close, but of course for those who have experienced suicide in their lives, the struggle does not end once September passes. For those who advocate for recognition of firearm suicides, the struggle is especially frustrating.
As this recent piece from NPR demonstrates, suicide by gun is not the most common form, but is by far the most lethal. And even when well-intentioned people address our gun violence problem, they often ignore suicides — which make up the majority of gun-related deaths in the United States.
“There's not as much willingness to talk about them. I think that's changing. It becomes hard to ignore as the rates climb.”
Check out the full article here; or listen to this episode of NPR’s “Morning Edition” below.
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.