Gun-related suicide rates down in Deschutes County

Deschutes County officials said Monday that firearms remain the most frequent method for committing suicide in the county.

While some people kill themselves by poisoning, hanging or other methods, guns are still the method used most frequently across all age groups.

More recently, nationwide, firearms are being used by children and teens to harm themselves.

The number of suicides related to firearms is down over the last few years in Deschutes County.

Firearms were used in 61 percent of suicides during the years from 2003-2012 but have dropped to 51 percent in the period from 2013 to 2016.

Across the nation, kids aged 13 to 17 are 12 times more likely to use a firearm to commit suicide than children who are 12 and younger, statistics show.

In Deschutes County, since 2013, teenagers have made up 12 percent of the total suicides recorded.

While teen suicide rates are down in Deschutes County, adult suicide rates have risen in recent years.

Here are some local resources if you or a loved one are experiencing suicidal thoughts:

Crook County 24-hour Crisis Line: 1-866-638-7103

Deschutes County 24-hour Crisis Line: (541) 322-7500 ext. 9

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-237-TALK (8255) or text “273Talk” to 839863