Suicide prevention experts: lock up your guns
Jun 15, 2018, 8:40 AM
SALT LAKE CITY — In the last three years, about half of the 10- to 17 year-olds who died by suicide in Utah died by using a firearm.
Harvard researcher Cathy Barber’s team was tapped by the Governor’s suicide task force to find out why youth suicide here has tripled in the last decade. She says reducing access to guns is a critical part of reducing deaths from suicide in Utah.
Barber’s team will give a full report to lawmakers in August, but lawmakers are already acting on her recommendations. Rep. Steve Eliason of Sandy says 9 out of 10 people who survive an attempt go on to live full lives, dying of causes other than suicide.
A new PSA is out now warning parents to lock up their guns.
Free Gunlock Giveaway
KSL is giving away FREE gun locks at multiple locations across Utah. Get information on each location and time here, and also find a form where you can order up to three additional free gun locks.
- Utah County Crisis Line: 801-691-5433
- Salt Lake County/UNI Crisis Line: 801-587-3000
- Wasatch Mental Health Crisis Line: 801-373-7393
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Trevor Project Hotline for LGBTQ teens: 1-866-488-7386
- NAMI Utah: namiut.org
- Utah Chapter-American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: afsputah.com
- Suicide Prevention Lifeline: www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org
- Talking about wanting to die
- Looking for a way to kill oneself
- Talking about feeling hopeless or having no purpose
- Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
- Talking about being a burden to others
- Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
- Acting anxious, agitated or recklessly
- Sleeping too little or too much
- Withdrawing or feeling isolated
- Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
- Displaying extreme mood swings
Information from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
- Do not leave the person alone
- Remove any firearms, alcohol, drugs or sharp objects that could be used in a suicide attempt
- Call the U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255)
- Take the person to an emergency room or seek help from a medical or mental health professional
Information from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
