The suicide component of the gun debate

[Scuba]

I often see pro-gunners posit that many/most gun deaths are a result of suicide, and therefore shouldn't be considered as part of the gun violence equation. Or some such nonsense.

Of course there's an element of truth in this obvious attempt at misdirection.

I am "pro suicide". I believe every person has the right to decide when his/her life should end. I also believe that we should help prevent suicides by persons sufferering from mental illness, and restricting their access to firearms should be part of that.

I suppose some will argue that choosing suicide equals mental illness, but I don't agree. I've believed for years that I will end my life myself before I'll endure endless sufferering followed by dying a gruesome death (not to mention bankrupting my family). I don't call that insane or cowardly, just pragmatic.

I wonder how many citizens may be concerned that an inability to acquire a firearm could prevent their rational decision to end their own life.

I wonder if legalizing means of suicide other than firearms would ease the concerns of some who oppose gun reform. If I could show up at my local hospital and receive a "lethal injection" I'd prefer that to making a mess by splattering my brains all over the scenery. But right now, I don't have that ability, and suicide by gun is easily the most available method.

Thoughts?