Rep. Mark DeSaulnier on Suicide Prevention Month and Firearm Deaths

Suicide Prevention Month Remarks

• 🗓️ Representative Mark DeSaulnier is speaking in recognition of September being Suicide Prevention Month.
• 💔 He shares a personal story about his father, who died by suicide over 35 years ago using a firearm.

Suicide Statistics in America

• 📈 In 2023, over 49,000 Americans died by suicide.
• 💥 Firearms were involved in nearly six out of 10 of these deaths.
• ⚠️ While firearms account for only 5% of suicide attempts, they are used in over 50% of suicide deaths, indicating a higher fatality rate.

Barriers to Seeking Help

• 💬 Many individuals who attempt suicide by means other than firearms regret their attempt and seek help, a path often unavailable to those who use more lethal means.
• 🚫 Too many people do not seek help due to fear, stigma, or lack of access.
• 🤝 Society needs to remove barriers and foster supportive communities to encourage help-seeking behavior.

Call to Action

• ☎️ If experiencing depression or suicidal thoughts, individuals are urged to seek help by calling 988.