Firearm suicide risk and prevention in service members

Firearms are the most common method of suicide in the US, with veterans representing 69.4% of cases. Suicide attempts have a devastating impact on veterans, families, and the economy via reduced productivity and survivor care needs. With the aim of enabling the development of enhanced firearm-related safety measures, this chapter presents: (1) research into firearm behavioral practices that might be predictive of suicide, such as firearm ownership and storage practices; (2) an understanding of the relationship between geographic location and suicide by examining state-wise military suicide rates and gun laws; (3) principal reasons for keeping a gun and their relationship to suicide risk; and (4) an examination of the relationship between storage practices and personality characteristics or mental health, such as impulsivity and paranoia. Future directions are discussed, including suicide risk screening and treatments, and innovative intervention opportunities to enhance safety and prevent firearm-related injuries, deaths, and crime.