: States like Washington and Texas have specific reporting requirements for courts to notify the FBI when someone is legally disqualified.
Under federal law (specifically 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(4) ), you are only prohibited from buying or owning a gun if you have been:
: In some states, even a temporary involuntary hold (like a 72-hour observation) may trigger a state-level prohibition, even if it doesn't meet the federal definition of "commitment". 4. Safety and Resources can someone with depression buy a gun
If you or a loved one is struggling, many communities offer training on "lethal means safety"—the practice of temporarily reducing access to firearms during a mental health crisis to prevent self-harm.
: This is a legal term meaning a court or board has found you to be a danger to yourself or others, or found that you lack the mental capacity to manage your own affairs. : States like Washington and Texas have specific
: This database includes records of those disqualified for mental health reasons, but only if they meet the legal criteria above.
: This refers to involuntary commitment by a lawful authority. Voluntary admission for treatment typically does not result in a federal prohibition. 2. The Role of Background Checks : This database includes records of those disqualified
: A workshop focused on early identification and firearm suicide prevention (June 17, 2026, in St. Louis).