Author: Regine Alisan
The shocking rise in the number of firearm-related fatalities in the United States over the past few years has posed serious issues, especially for veterans. 72% of veteran suicides in 2021 involved a firearm, according to the 2023 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report. This figure stresses how crucial it is to address the link between veteran suicide risk and firearm access.
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has started several programs to handle this matter and minimize the suicide rate among veterans who are considered to be on the verge. The VA Firearm Lockbox Program is formally scheduled to debut in late 2024. Through this program, eligible veterans can safely store firearms free of charge. If feasible, these lockboxes are meant to delay direct access to weapons. It’s a small but potent tool in the VA’s arsenal of suicide prevention methods.
Many veterans see firearms as more than just a means of hunting or self-defense. As a sign of independence, patriotism, or even nostalgia for years spent in the military, owning a gun is often associated with a veteran’s identity. But when a veteran has a higher risk of suicide, this close bond can become a double-edged sword. The data speaks for itself: among male veterans, the rate of firearm suicide is 62% higher than that of their non-veteran peers, and among female veterans, it is a startling 281% higher than that of their non-veteran peers.
Having simple and fast access to a firearm during a crisis can be fatal. The VA intends to buy valuable time by establishing a tiny barrier, such as a lockbox, so that a Veteran can reconsider their course of action, get assistance, or be prevented before making a decision that cannot be undone.
A lockbox is a compact, safe container meant to contain a firearm and restrict access to it at times of high risk. Through the implementation of the VA’s electronic health record system, a physician can prescribe one of these lockboxes to veterans who have been identified to be at high risk for suicide, as determined by the VA Comprehensive Suicide Risk Evaluation. The prescription process is comparable to providing veterans crutches or other medical equipment like blood glucose monitors.
Speaking with veterans about gun safety can be challenging. A common concern among veterans is that talking about guns with medical professionals could violate their Second Amendment rights or bring stigma. However, 80% of veteran gun owners say a physician should discuss weapon safety if a household member is in danger of suicide, according to an online research by JAMA Network. This makes it possible to have productive conversations concerning safe storage options like lockboxes. These talks may be quite important. The connection between having quick access to firearms and an increased risk of suicide may not be entirely understood by many veterans or the people close to them.
Giving veterans a tangible tool to store their firearms safely is only one aspect of the VA’s Firearm Lockbox Program. The goal is to start a conversation about safe storage, preventing suicide, and the importance of life. It aims to uphold the rights and morals of veterans while promoting their safety during vulnerable times. The lockbox program is designed to contribute to this crucial difference in conjunction with other VA services, such as the Veterans Crisis Line.
Veterans who wish to avoid gun-related suicides can take advantage of the VA Firearm Lockbox Program. The VA seeks to empower veterans to safeguard their weapons and lives by offering free lockboxes and encouraging sincere, compassionate discussions on firearm safety. Through this program, veterans will be empowered to make safer choices during times of crisis and to reduce firearm-related suicides.