How to talk to teens directly about access to a firearm

When to start the conversation

Some health care providers routinely ask young patients about firearm access, while others only ask when they feel the patient may be at risk of harming themselves or someone else. Even if a patient doesn’t have access to a firearm at home, they may have access at a friend or family member’s house, so it is important to have these preventative care conversations with all patients. 

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How to start the conversation

It is important to let the patient know your office is a judgement-free zone and that you care about their well-being. To make your teen patient as comfortable as possible when you’re talking with them one-on-one, start by asking for their permission—and then raise the subject in a respectful way. For example, they may have mentioned that they like to go hunting with their family. If so, you can use that information to guide the conversation. After asking a question, listen quietly as the patient answers.

“Some of my patients have guns at home, so I also like to ask patients if guns are part of their life. Is there a gun at home or one you could easily access?

“Because I care about my patients’ health and safety, I talk with them about ways they can stay safe, such as wearing their seat belt, avoiding risky situations, and what to do if they see a gun. Are there firearms in your home? If there are, do you know how they are stored?”

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How to talk about access to firearms

Even teens who have been trained on firearm safety may not recognize the risks associated with firearm access. If a patient mentions that they can access a firearm at home, that can be a segue to a conversation about instances when that may be dangerous. 

“It sounds like you know a lot about firearms, but other people who visit your home may not be as knowledgeable. What do you think you would do if one of your friends picked up the gun as a joke? How would you respond if they asked if you wanted to hold the gun?”

“It’s safest for everyone in a home if firearms are stored securely, so that’s something I’d like to talk about with your parents. Is it OK with you if I do that now?"

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How to talk about noticing when someone may be in crisis

When you talk with young patients about their mental health, explain that it’s especially dangerous for people to have access to firearms when they are in crisis. Let patients know that they can always tell you—or another trusted adult—if they are having a hard time and need support.

“Around your age, people sometimes experience very intense emotions. In a moment of crisis, they may act impulsively. In those moments, it’s not safe for them to have access to a gun, because they could harm themselves or someone else.”

“If you’re ever worried about someone else’s mental health and you know they can access a gun, tell a trusted adult right away.”

“Life can be very hard at times. If you’re ever worried about your mental health, the best thing you can do is ask for help. Tell a trusted adult how you’re feeling.”

“Are you currently seeing or dating someone who has access to guns? Are there ever times when you feel unsafe in the relationship or with your partner?”

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After the chat

• If a teen patient mentions that there are unsecured firearms in their home, start a conversation with their parents about how securing their guns can help keep their child safe. Use this guide to get started.
• If you are concerned about a child or teen’s mental health, share your concerns with their parent or caregiver, and discuss potential treatment options.