Year: 2008 Source: Psychiatric Services, v.59, no.2, (February 2008), p.198-200 SIEC No: 20081291

Using data from 5692 adult participants in the National Comorbidity Study: Replication, this study examined relationships between mental disorders, past suicidality, & gun access & safety practices. Individuals with lifetime mental disorders were as likely as those without to have access to a gun, carry a gun, or store a gun in an unsafe manner. However, individuals with a prior suicide attempt were less likely than those without such an attempt to have access to a gun. Given the previously established relationship between mental health risk factors & suicide, this study highlights the need to assess for gun access among high-risk individuals. (10 refs.)