Rural community members' experiences and perceptions regarding lethal means safety in the context of suicide and...

Together with Veterans (TWV), a community-based suicide prevention intervention, is being implemented in rural locations across the United States, with individuals designing and implementing action plans based on community-specific strengths and needs. To increase understanding regarding lethal means safety (LMS) among those living in 3 diverse rural communities where TWV is being implemented (Mississippi [MS], New Mexico [NM], Oregon [OR]), demographic and mortality data were obtained, and a survey was conducted. Responses are presented in the context of demographics and mortality rates.

Demographic and mortality data were drawn from the American Community Survey and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Wide-ranging ONline Data for Epidemiologic Research database. In addition, a random survey sample was selected from the United States Postal Service delivery sequence file. Survey recruitment was conducted primarily by mail.

Notable differences exist between communities in terms of demographics and mortality rates (eg, average annual suicide mortality rates: MS 11.8/100,000; NM 33.0/100,000, OR 28.0/100,000). Across these communities, 3,846 individuals responded to the survey. Whereas most respondents were at least somewhat willing to discuss access to firearms with health care providers, only 3.8%-10.8% reported that any provider had asked about such access. A low proportion reported discussions with providers regarding safe storage of medications (14.1%-21.66%). Many respondents did not agree that gun locks and safes reduce suicide risk (16.9%-23.5%).

Findings highlight room for growth in terms of education regarding the positive impact of LMS. It is recommended that strategies be guided by community-specific contextual factors.