I love the Op-Ed section of the paper. I believe we all need to write at least one letter on something we’re passionate about in our lifetime. In saying that, I applaud this reader

Re: “Why suicide rates are so high among older adults in Washington” (Nov. 24, Mental Health Project) and “High suicide rate among seniors is a tragedy for entire community” (Dec. 4, Opinion):

We applaud The Seattle Times for highlighting the risk of suicide among older Washingtonians and the editorial board’s call to readers to support seniors’ mental health and social connections. Beyond these excellent suggestions, we would like to offer some perspectives on the role of lethal means in suicide.

At Forefront Suicide Prevention, we’ve long been concerned about suicide among seniors. In the highest risk group, men ages 80-84, a shocking 85% of suicides involve firearm use. Medication overdoses are the most frequent type of suicide attempt.

The good news is that limiting access to firearms and medication in times of crisis can protect people against suicide. We encourage everyone to learn about brave and responsible actions people can take to secure firearms and medications in the home.

Good resources include the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s partnership with the National Shooting Sports Foundation and our own website (intheforefront.org), which includes resources on suicide prevention among seniors.

Suicide among older adults is an urgent public health problem, but it’s one we can address through raising awareness, connecting with others and keeping each other safe from lethal means in times of crisis.

Rebecca Vaux,