Abigail Hurst’s Post

In our society it feels like we’re not supposed to talk about suicide. We shut up. Never mention it again. Move on. I disagree with that approach. I talk about it because it’s how to address problems. Talk about the hard things. And it is a problem. I’m 40 now and I’ve lost my Dad, my best friend, my step brother, and my good friend, all to suicide. All with guns. Growing up in Texas, easy access to guns was always there. You’re born owning them. Family heirlooms get passed down from generation to generation. It’s normal to see them around your communities. Reading this article made me see information worth sharing that I think people don’t always know or honor. “Murder rates and mass shootings make national headlines, defining the discussion over pervasive gun violence. But most gun deaths in America are self-inflicted. There were about 27,000 gun suicides in 2022. That was a record, and far higher than the 19,500 gun homicides documented that year…. Nationally, guns were used in about 55 percent of such deaths…. Research has shown that 135 people can be “exposed” to a single suicide and that some of those closest to the person who dies can be at greater risk of contemplating suicide themselves.” I’ve had people say it makes them uncomfortable hearing about it. Well it can be uncomfortable talking about sad things. But it’s worse not talking about them when the repercussions can be so great. It’s not about dwelling. It’s about excavating. It’s about uncovering the human condition and understanding it better to better address it. Now I’m no professional on this topic, but who really is? What I do know is I’ve known a lot of losses in these 40 years. Suicides, overdoses, disease, even murder. And I’m a privileged white guy from well to do Houston, and I still have a beautiful life. I have an incredible wife and two healthy sons and great family and friends. But I’ve known suicide first hand since I was 9. And when I was 23. And when I was 34. And 38. Some things need to change and we need to address this bear. Gun safety is about more than your rights. It’s about your well being and about those who love you too. So I’ll put it out there, but those that know me already know this. If you ever need to talk on this, I am always here. And I’m not going any where. And I’ll die on this hill that we need to take care of our society with better gun laws, better mental health care, and better self care. Off my soapbox now. Take good care this week and this life. People love you more than you know. Make the world a little better if you can. Best, Sam https://lnkd.in/eCMsGi-Z

Today is World Suicide Prevention Day. Here is a throwback to an article I wrote on the role firearms play in our high rates of suicide (and of course, the role they play in our insane rates of gun-related deaths). If you are a gun owner, please ensure that it is stored safely. The most likely person to kill you, is you. Psychology Today https://lnkd.in/gyzQekw

“There have been more gun suicides than gun homicides in the United States every year for the past 25 years. Yet the harm inflicted on communities by suicides rarely registers in the national debate over guns.” I realize this is a very sensitive topic. American obsession with guns and our poor mental/spiritual/public health care are a significant part of the issue here. Additionally, the powerful gun lobby is at fault here, but they will never take any responsibility or accountability for what’s happening in our country regarding gun violence and suicides. We as Americans need to start having some very important conversations within our families, communities, and country. But it can’t stop with conversation, we must take action toward building a more loving and compassionate society. It’s interesting how one of the narratives around guns is that they protect us and make us safe. I think the data and all the stories of heartbreak across this country tell a very different story 🤷🏼♂️ It’s so easy for these conversations to get partisan, but let’s remember these are human beings. This isn’t about partisan politics, it’s about making our relatively short time here on earth a more loving and safe place for all.

This week, the White House hosted an event for the release of the Biden administration’s National Strategy for Suicide Prevention. This is the first time in over a decade that the National Strategy for Suicide Prevention has been updated, and the first time ever that it has been accompanied with a Federal Action Plan. Firearms account for 5% of suicide attempts but are used in over 60% of all suicide deaths in America. That is why it’s so important for solutions addressing suicide to also address access to lethal means, a significant risk factor for suicide. Safely storing all guns and having conversations with loved ones about their access to firearms and how they store them can be a simple and life-saving action. Over half of our country’s gun deaths are suicides, which is why it’s so critical to address America’s gun violence epidemic as the public health crisis that it is. It was great to have two survivors, Hannah Tyler and Grace Wankelman represent Brady as they heard from the Surgeon General, Second Gentleman, Director of the White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention, Ashley Judd, Aloe Blacc, Neera Tanden, and Steve Benjamin about the Biden administration’s strategy to prevent suicide. If you are going through a crisis, please reach out for help. You can get free, confidential, 24/7 support by calling or texting 988. Learn more about the connection between firearms and suicide: https://lnkd.in/esexS5yV

🔊 Addressing the Overlooked Crisis of Gun Suicides: A Personal Story and Call to Action In early summer 2018, Maura Condon Umble’s world changed forever when her son, Alex Patrick Umble, took his own life. This tragedy brought to light the often-overlooked crisis of gun suicides in America. While mass shootings and homicides dominate headlines, over half of gun-related deaths are suicides. In 2023 alone, 42,967 lives were lost to gun violence, with suicides comprising the majority. Pennsylvania reflects this national trend, with over 900 deaths by gun suicides annually. Dr. Paul Nestadt, a leading researcher on suicide, emphasizes that most people who attempt suicide do so impulsively and with the means available. For those using firearms, the fatality rate is devastatingly high. He also dispels the myth that thwarted suicide attempts lead to repeated efforts; data shows that 94% of those who survive do not go on to die by suicide. Maura’s experience underscores the need for open conversations about suicide and mental health. Despite the taboo, she courageously shares Alex’s story to drive change and push for comprehensive gun violence prevention, including addressing gun suicides. We must recognize the signs, support those in crisis, and advocate for policies that save lives. If you or someone you know is struggling, please call or text 9-8-8 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Together, we can make a difference. #MentalHealth #SuicidePrevention #GunViolence #EndTheStigma #SupportEachOther

What measures can communities implement to enhance security during large gatherings, such as funerals, in high-crime areas? Gunfire at a Funeral: Tackling Community Violence and Ensuring Safety During Mourning Gunfire erupted outside Bates Memorial Baptist Church in Louisville's Smoketown neighborhood during a funeral, leaving two people injured. The incident, which occurred around 2:15 p.m., involved a shooting in the church's parking lot and a nearby alley. Both victims were taken to UofL Hospital and are in stable condition. The Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) Non-Fatal Shooting Unit is investigating, but no suspects have been identified. Community members expressed fear and frustration over the violence, emphasizing the need for increased security and respect for human life. Key Takeaways: - Enhanced Security for Large Gatherings: Implementing security measures such as increased police presence and community watch programs during large gatherings can help deter violence and ensure safety in high-crime areas. - Collaborative Efforts to Reduce Gun Violence: Strengthening partnerships between law enforcement and community leaders is crucial for developing and executing strategies to reduce gun violence and improve public safety. - Support Services for Traumatized Residents: Providing mental health support and counseling services for residents affected by frequent gun violence can help them cope with trauma and contribute to community healing and resilience. #churchsecurity #churchcrime https://lnkd.in/gFXtaGC4

“Hurt kids hurt people” We will never be able to address school shootings until we look past the acts of violence and ask ourselves, “why did they do this?” We must look at how these kids got to the point psychologically to where they took a rifle and killed their innocent classmates and teachers. In the majority of these cases, there was no prior history of mental illness. I wonder- are these acts a result of an undiagnosed mental illness, or are they a result of the repetitive failures still rampant in our child welfare system? Either way there is a clear social context that must be addressed. Mental illness itself does not cause extreme acts of violence. There is something more beyond the surface we need to understand and i believe a lot of it goes back to our inadequate child welfare system. While I fully support gun control, I also recognize it will not solve the other underlying issue. These issues are never simple, human behavior is very complex. To pass these tragedies off as either a result of mental illness or a lack of gun control is only perpetuating the problem. Not to mention how we say these things and then don’t address either of them. Like many social issues, a holistic approach is the only way to truly prevent these awful acts of violence.

Community, I am writing to address a pressing issue that has been severely impacting our neighborhoods: gun violence. Just recently, our San Francisco star rookie wide receiver was shot during an attempted robbery, and in a separate tragic incident, an innocent eight-year-old girl was struck by a stray bullet. Additionally, we have lost two more members of our community to this senseless violence. These events are not isolated; they are part of a troubling pattern that has brought fear, trauma, and pain to our community. Something is fundamentally wrong when it comes to gun violence. The toll it takes on us—mentally, physically, and emotionally—is immeasurable. We must confront this issue head-on by making significant investments in mental health services and providing robust support for our young people. Our approach needs to shift from reactionary to proactive. Too often, we intervene only after violence has already occurred. We need to focus on violence prevention, not just intervention. This requires intentional investments aimed at keeping our youth away from guns and out of harm's way. Programs that offer education, mentorship, and job opportunities can provide the foundation for a safer, more hopeful future. The impact of gun violence extends beyond the immediate victims. It creates a ripple effect of fear and anxiety that deteriorates the fabric of our community. Our police, elected officials, and community leaders are working tirelessly to address this crisis, but they can't do it alone. We all have a role to play in uplifting our youth and fostering a culture of non-violence. It is an arduous task, but it is one we must undertake for the betterment of our community. We need to unlearn harmful behaviors and attitudes and instead, focus on community-based solutions that promote safety and well-being. Let us come together to address this issue with the urgency and commitment it deserves. By investing in our youth and prioritizing preventive measures, we can create a safer, stronger community for all. Sincerely, Jon Henry Both Sides Of The Conversation Changing The Narrative From Out Voices

Community, I am writing to address a pressing issue that has been severely impacting our neighborhoods: gun violence. Just recently, our San Francisco star rookie wide receiver was shot during an attempted robbery, and in a separate tragic incident, an innocent eight-year-old girl was struck by a stray bullet. Additionally, we have lost two more members of our community to this senseless violence. These events are not isolated; they are part of a troubling pattern that has brought fear, trauma, and pain to our community. Something is fundamentally wrong when it comes to gun violence. The toll it takes on us—mentally, physically, and emotionally—is immeasurable. We must confront this issue head-on by making significant investments in mental health services and providing robust support for our young people. Our approach needs to shift from reactionary to proactive. Too often, we intervene only after violence has already occurred. We need to focus on violence prevention, not just intervention. This requires intentional investments aimed at keeping our youth away from guns and out of harm's way. Programs that offer education, mentorship, and job opportunities can provide the foundation for a safer, more hopeful future. The impact of gun violence extends beyond the immediate victims. It creates a ripple effect of fear and anxiety that deteriorates the fabric of our community. Our police, elected officials, and community leaders are working tirelessly to address this crisis, but they can't do it alone. We all have a role to play in uplifting our youth and fostering a culture of non-violence. It is an arduous task, but it is one we must undertake for the betterment of our community. We need to unlearn harmful behaviors and attitudes and instead, focus on community-based solutions that promote safety and well-being. Let us come together to address this issue with the urgency and commitment it deserves. By investing in our youth and prioritizing preventive measures, we can create a safer, stronger community for all. Sincerely, Jon Henry Both Sides Of The Conversation Changing The Narrative From Out Voices

New Post: Shreveport Community Mourns as Young Man Falls Victim to Gun Violence - https://lnkd.in/gQ4-KjDy Shreveport, a tragic shooting claimed the life of Jtorryon Williams, marking the 10th homicide of the year. The community mourns the loss and confronts the pressing need to address gun violence. Authorities are actively investigating and appealing for information to prevent further tragedies, emphasizing the collective responsibility to create a safer future. SHREVEPORT, Louisiana - In the early hours of Thursday morning, a tragic event unfolded at a Shreveport apartment complex, resulting in the death of a young man and marking another homicide in the city for the year 2024. Jtorryon Williams, 20, was identified by the coroner after being fatally shot multiple times in the parking lot of the complex located in the 4300 block of Lakeshore Drive. The incident occurred just after 3:40 a.m., casting a shadow over the community as daylight broke. Despite prompt medical attention and being rushed to Ochsner LSU Health, Williams succumbed to his wounds at approximately 5:30 a.m., leaving family, friends, and the community to mourn his loss. This devastating event signifies the 10th homicide in Shreveport and Caddo Parish for the year, highlighting a concerning trend of violence that has gripped the area. The Shreveport Police Department is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding Williams' death, seeking to bring those responsible to justice and to understand the motive behind this senseless act of violence. Williams' death not only represents a personal tragedy for his loved ones but also serves as a grim reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by communities grappling with the impacts of gun violence. It underscores the urgent need for effective strategies to prevent such incidents and to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents. As the investigation continues, the community is left to reflect on the loss of a young life cut short and the collective responsibility to address the root causes of violence. The hope is that through cooperation and concerted efforts, Shreveport can work towards a future where such tragedies become a thing of the past. Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the shooting to come forward, as their cooperation could be crucial in solving this case and in preventing further violence. The loss of Jtorryon Williams is not just a statistic; it's a call to action for everyone who calls Shreveport home. Danyell ManigoThe Shreveport Sun