New York, NY – A recent study conducted by Northwell Health in partnership with Stacker has revealed alarming statistics regarding firearm-related deaths among children in the United States. According to the research published in Health Affairs, firearms have become the leading cause of child fatalities in the country by 2024.
The findings come at a critical time as research on gun violence has experienced a resurgence after being stifled for over a decade by the Dickey Amendment, which restricted funding for such studies. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data shows that on average, 120 individuals die from firearms every day in the U.S., with over 200 suffering injuries. However, the lack of national data on nonfatal gun violence injuries makes conducting studies challenging.
While mass shootings often dominate headlines, they account for only a fraction of gun-related fatalities. Other forms of gun violence, such as suicide, domestic violence, community violence, intimate partner violence, and hate crimes, contribute significantly to the overall statistics. Research from Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund revealed that nearly one million American women have experienced intimate partner violence involving firearms.
The impact of firearm injuries goes beyond physical harm, as survivors, particularly children and adolescents, are shown to experience higher rates of psychiatric disorders, pain disorders, and substance use disorders. Parents of survivors also reported increased rates of psychiatric disorders and mental health visits, highlighting the ripple effect of gun violence.
Furthermore, access to adequate mental health care for survivors is often hindered by insurance coverage limitations, as noted in a report by the Government Accountability Office. Studies have shown that a significant percentage of children injured by firearms do not receive mental health care services within six months of the incident. The disparities are also apparent among different racial groups, with non-Hispanic Black youth less likely to receive follow-up care compared to non-Hispanic white youth.
Survivors of gun violence may face long-term psychological impacts, such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD. One study published in the Journal of Trauma Nursing highlighted the prevalence of hypervigilance and fear among survivors, leading to a reluctance to leave their homes out of safety concerns.
As the conversation around gun violence continues to evolve, it is essential to address the long-lasting effects it has on survivors and their families. By shedding light on the mental health challenges faced by individuals impacted by gun violence, researchers and policymakers can work towards providing adequate support and resources to those in need.