About The Study: In this retrospective cross-sectional study, unsecured firearm storage practices were significantly associated with increased suicide risk across all time frames, after controlling for lifetime mental health disorders and history of stressful life events. Carrying a weapon other than a firearm was also associated with heightened suicide risk. The findings suggest firearm storage and carrying behavior of any weapon, not just firearms, may indicate heightened suicide risk among military service members.
Corresponding Author: To contact the corresponding author, Catherine L. Dempsey, PhD, email catherine.dempsey.ctr@usuhs.edu .
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(doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2026.8268)
Editor’s Note: Please see the article for additional information, including other authors, author contributions and affiliations, conflict of interest and financial disclosures, and funding and support.
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