ABSTRACT
Objective
The present study seeks to examine changes in demographic characteristics, suicide risk, and treatment-seeking behaviors among those who died by firearm suicide prior to and following the 2020 firearm purchasing surge.
Methods
This study utilized data from the National Violent Death Reporting System from 2003 to 2021.
Results
Those who died by firearm suicide post-2020 were more likely to be Black, Asian, and another race compared to those who died pre-2020. Additionally, those who died post-2020 had higher rates of suicidal ideation and lower rates of disclosure of ideation or plans, current mental health/substance abuse treatment, or a lifetime history of mental health/substance abuse treatment.
Conclusion
Findings indicate that demographics, suicide risk, and treatment-seeking behaviors differ among those who died post-2020 compared to pre-2020. Based on these findings, disseminating information on secure firearm storage beyond the healthcare system is needed to reach those most at risk.