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Firearms lethal means safety among Veterans: Attitudes toward involving a concerned significant other

DeBeer BB, Matthieu MM, Degutis LC, Clafferty S, Blessing A, Quan C, Morissette S. Firearms lethal means safety among Veterans: Attitudes toward involving a concerned significant other. Journal of military, veteran and family health. 2024 Dec 9; 11(1):1-9, DOI: https://doi.org/10.3138/jmvfh-2023-0094.

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Abstract:

Introduction: This quality improvement project evaluated the acceptability and feasibility of involving concerned significant others (CSOs) in lethal means safety with Veterans who had suicidal ideation or a prior suicide attempt. Methods: Using a mixed-methods design, dyads were recruited to participate in qualitative interviews on current practices, attitudes, and recommendations related to secure firearm storage from the Veteran and CSO perspectives. Veterans (n = 29) and their CSOs (n = 4) were individually interviewed. Results: A majority of Veterans (n = 25) emphasized the importance of engaging in safe firearm practices, and many indicated that they wanted to discuss firearm access openly. In addition, most Veterans (n = 26) were receptive to a CSO limiting firearm access. Although the number of participating CSOs was small, all (n = 4) indicated a willingness to securely store firearms and emphasized the importance of having direct conversations about firearm storage with Veterans. Discussion: Findings provide initial support for receptiveness toward a person-level intervention incorporating a CSO into firearm safety planning for Veterans at risk for suicide.




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