Suicide prevention

In this issue: September is Suicide Prevention Month. Suicide is devastating, and it has far-reaching effects that often impact entire communities. It is one of the most common acts of fatal violence and is the 11th leading cause of death in the United States. Over 48,000 Americans died by suicide in 2021. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs:

“[A] crisis can happen unexpectedly to anyone. Research shows that many individuals who have experienced a suicidal crisis indicated that it lasted only a matter of minutes. Contrary to popular belief, if a person experiencing a suicidal crisis can’t access the method they planned to use, they generally do not seek out other lethal means to attempt suicide.” 

When it comes to suicide, firearms are the most lethal means. Putting time and space between a person at risk of suicide and firearms can be the difference between life and death. 

But there is hope: Suicide is preventable, and prevention starts by building foundations of mental healthcare and social supports, recognizing warning signs, and addressing access to lethal means. And as many of you know, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available by dialing 988. We encourage you to save the number in your phone and share it with anyone who may need it. 

Other topics covered:

• New research on extreme risk protection orders, trends and sources of crime guns, and political violence.
• The BulletPoints Project's Virtual Train the Trainer Workshop on Clinical Firearm Injury Prevention 
• VPRP's presence at the 2023 HAVI conference.

Stay informed—read the full newsletter for insights on how our work is driving violence prevention, our latest research and resources, upcoming events, and more. Subscribe so you never miss an issue.