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Note: This content is derived from the 2019 VA/DOD Clinical Practice Guideline for the Assessment and Management of Patients at Risk for Suicide. For the latest clinical practice guideline for this condition, visit
https://www.healthquality.va.gov/guidelines/MH/.
“Firearm use is the most common method of injury, accounting for approximately 60 percent of all suicide deaths among active duty service members from 2008 through 2019.” As firearms are highly lethal and can be used quickly and impulsively during a crisis, health care providers should talk with their patients about firearm safety procedures as well as other means safety procedures (e.g., safe medication storage) on a regular basis.
Resources and clinical support tools are available to help health care providers and military leaders develop competence in discussing firearm and means safety.
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Last Updated: January 17, 2025