News & Events

FIPP Tip May 2026

Friday, May 1, 2026

National Mental Health Awareness Month: A Reminder About Secure Firearm Storage

As we recognize National Mental Health Awareness Month in May, it’s vital to remember that patients with poor mental health are at increased risk for suicide, and over half of the more than 49,000 suicides in 2023 involved a firearm (CDC). Older adults (85+) had the highest suicide rates last year (April is also Older Americans Month) and have high rates of gun ownership.

Why This Matters

• 90% of suicide attempts using a firearm result in death (Everytown).

• Secure storage (locked, unloaded, separate from ammunition) can give those in crisis crucial time and deter impulsive actions.

How You Can Help

• Ask directly about firearm access during mental health screenings.

• Counsel patients and families on using gun locks, safes, or temporary off-site storage.

• Provide local resources for secure storage options (e.g., law enforcement drop-boxes, community lock-loan programs).

• Provide suicide prevention and crisis hotline resources (e.g., 988, 211).

By integrating these conversations into routine care, you use some of the most powerful tools available to prevent suicide.

Visit our website’s resource page for more information on secure firearm storage and how to have effective conversations with patients.

Remember, the FIPP Team has free cable gun locks available for distribution to your patients. If you are interested and have completed our Firearm Injury Prevention training, please have your clinic leader contact us.