This September, as we recognize Suicide Prevention Month, we’re sharing one simple truth: secure storage of a firearm can save a life.

In 2022, nearly 72% of veteran suicides involved firearms.

The firearm suicide rate for male veterans was nearly 70% higher than for nonveteran men. For female veterans, the firearm suicide rate was 144% higher than for nonveteran women.

That’s why conversations about firearm storage matter.

Secure storage saves lives.

Firearm lockboxes are now available through VA.

VA’s Firearm Lockbox Distribution Program is fully operational nationwide. This program provides free handgun lockboxes to at-risk veterans as part of their VA mental health care.

Clinicians prescribe these lockboxes through VA’s prosthetics system, just like a blood pressure cuff, glucometer or home oxygen.

Each lockbox is small, designed to store a single handgun and includes a locking mechanism to help create time and space between a veteran and lethal means during a crisis. Participation is voluntary. Lockboxes are only offered to veterans who want them.

Why time matters

Research shows that most people who survive a suicide attempt do not go on to die by suicide, and that suicide crises often pass quickly. That’s why creating even a brief delay in access to lethal means, especially firearms, can save a life.

Firearms are the most lethal method of suicide, with a fatality rate of over 90%. Most other methods are far less likely to be fatal, giving time for intervention or recovery. Simple steps such as locking a firearm, securely storing it in a separate room, or asking a friend to hold it temporarily can create that life-saving pause.

Studies show that when a preferred method isn’t available, most people do not substitute another method. Creating time and space between a person in crisis and a firearm can save their life.

What you can do

• Veterans: If you’re struggling, ask your VA provider about receiving a firearm lockbox. It’s free and private.

• Families and caregivers: Start the conversation. Help your loved one consider secure storage options for firearms.

• Community leaders: Share this information widely.

• Veterans, families and caregivers can also pick up free cable gun locks at VA medical centers nationwide. Just ask your provider or contact your local suicide prevention coordinator. At VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System that is Dr. Brittany Musicaro, Interim Suicide Prevention Program Manager, or for more information, visit https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/suicide_prevention/.

• Visit KeepItSecure.net to learn more about secure firearm storage.

Help is always here

If you or someone you love is thinking about suicide, support is available 24/7.

• Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988 then Press 1

• Text: 838255

• Chat: VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat

• Take VA S.A.V.E. training. It is free, and anyone can take it online. If you feel like in-person training would be more useful, you can leave a message for our local VA suicide prevention team at 720-857-5291

Together, we can protect each other

VA can’t do this work alone. Preventing suicide takes all of us: veterans, families, caregivers, care teams and communities.

Whether you’re a coach, a barber, a pastor or a business owner, you can be part of the solution. Displaying a 988 poster, sharing a flyer about lockboxes or simply asking, “How are you doing?” can change someone’s path.

Veterans don’t have to face challenging moments alone. A locked case. A text. A phone call. A few extra minutes. These small actions can save lives. This month, and every month, let’s keep the conversation going and help protect those who served.

Sunaina Kumar-Giebel is the director of VA Rocky Mountain Network (Veterans Integrated Service Network 19). Paul Roberts is the interim director of VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System.

Sunaina Kumar-Giebel is the Director, VA Rocky Mountain Network (Veterans Integrated Service Network 19). Paul Roberts is the Interim Director, VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System.