In 2018, 547 people died by suicide in Arkansas, making it the leading cause of violent death that year. That is more than double the rate of homicides that occurred that year, and nearly 3 out of 5-gun deaths in Arkansas in 2019 were suicides. Unfortunately, these events do not often make the news and only leave trauma within local communities. What can we do as Arkansans to prevent this awful outcome? Talk and allow for a temporary holding of household firearms.
This image shows the Arkansas trend of deaths due to suicide compared to the United States average. One possibility for a higher-than-average suicide fatality rate is the availability of firearms in Arkansas. Arkansas is ranked 6th on the list of gun ownership. When firearms are easily available, they are going to be the most likely means to follow-thru with suicidal ideations and the most lethal means to do so. The fatality rate by suicide method for a firearm is around 82.5%. This can be compared to drug ingestion around 1.5%.
How can you help?
STEP 1:
The quickest and easiest way to save someone’s life is communication. If you believe a friend or family member is having a difficult time, ask them and know the warning signs.
- Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves
- Looking for a way to kill themselves, like searching online or buying a gun
- Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
- Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
- Talking about being a burden to others
- Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
- Acting anxious or agitated, behaving recklessly
- Sleeping too little or too much
- Withdrawing or isolating themselves
- Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
- Extreme mood swings
STEP 2:
Secure the firearms! Arkansas is a wonderful state for gun owner’s rights. But there are certain times and circumstances when it may be best to ensure the safety of a loved one. Did you know nine out of ten people who attempt suicide and survive will not go on to die by suicide later. This relatively good long-term survival rate shows that suicidal crises are often short-lived. In fact, when reviewing stories of people that have attempted suicide, they often regret their actions.
How might you approach this situation?
According to Daniel Wysocki Ed.S, a counselor in Jonesboro, AR, the best approach when you suspect someone is struggling with suicidal ideation is to first ask how they are doing, expressing genuine concern for their well-being. If they are open to it, you could offer to help keep them safe for the next few weeks. It’s important to remember that individuals with suicidal thoughts may actually want to live but may feel overwhelmed by their current pain. By ensuring their safety over a short period of time, you can provide hope and potentially prevent a permanent loss. Seeking professional help may not always be an immediate option, but providing short-term support such as holding onto their firearm can offer temporary help until professional help is available. The key is to communicate that you are there to help and want to provide assistance to prevent a tragic outcome.
