Black adults exposed to gun violence face a higher likelihood of experiencing suicidal thoughts and behaviors, according to a new study by Rutgers Health researchers. The research, published in JAMA Network Open, reveals a concerning association between various forms of gun violence exposure and increased suicide risk among the Black population.
The study surveyed 3,015 Black adults and found that 56 percent had been exposed to at least one type of gun violence, while 12 percent had experienced three or more types. Specifically, being threatened with a gun or knowing someone who had been shot was linked to lifetime suicidal ideation and attempts. Additionally, individuals who had been shot themselves were more likely to have made preparations for suicide at least once.
Daniel Semenza, director of interpersonal violence research at the New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, emphasized the importance of understanding the underlying causes of rising suicide rates among Black Americans. He noted, “Violence is damaging to mental health,” and suggested a possible connection between interpersonal violence and self-directed violence.
The research comes at a critical time, as 2021 saw record-high gun-related deaths in the United States, totaling nearly 49,000, alongside approximately 85,000 nonfatal shootings. During the same year, the overall suicide rate among the Black population increased by 44 percent.
Mike Anestis, executive director of the New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center and study co-author, highlighted the disproportionate risk of gun violence exposure among Black adults, stating that this community faces “a uniquely high risk of encountering an environment that could lead to tragedy.”
The findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions and support systems to address the mental health impacts of gun violence exposure in the Black community.
See “Exposure to gun violence is associated with suicidal behavior in Black adults” (February 6, 2024)
