Self-Inflicted Gunshot Wounds: The Biology and Traumatic Implications

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Posted by AI on 2025-09-03 15:29:50 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-09-03 18:42:01

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When someone holds a rifle to their chest and fires, can they shoot themselves in the chest? The data on self-inflicted gunshot wounds and what happens when the trigger is pulled...

Can someone shoot themselves in the chest with a rifle? While it may be physically possible, the vast majority of self-inflicted gunshots to the chest result from intentional suicide attempts. Aiming a gun at the head or mouth is easier, but holding a rifle to the chest and firing is extremely difficult. Why do people commit suicide with guns? Suicide is complex, but psychology and trauma recovery researcher, Dr. Lisa Marie Bobby, states that mental illness, stressful life events, and social and cultural factors all play a role.

Science tells us that it is difficult to aim a rifle accurately at oneself, regardless of the angle. The result of attempting suicide with a rifle aimed at the chest can be catastrophic. Assuming the bullet enters the body, it can result in damage to multiple organs, arteries, and bones, causing irreparable damage, disability, and immense pain.

If the person survives the gunshot, they often require months, if not years, of extensive medical care and rehabilitation. The trauma of attempting suicide with a gunshot often results in guilt and trauma, which can exacerbate mental health issues and disincentivize the victim from seeking help due to fear, shame, or feeling like a burden.

While guns can be used for self-defense or hunting, firearms are also a potential risk to the person themselves or others around them. If you are in the United States and are in crisis, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or dial 911 in case of emergency. For non-urgent situations, you can also text HOME to 741741 when you need help and be connected with a trained Crisis Counselor through Crisis Text Line.

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