Wednesday, December 19, 2012

The issue is mental health

The words "Gun Control" is all a buzz right now due to the horrible tragedy in Newtown.  However; gun control isn't a true solution.  It is simply just a band aid to cover up the real problem which is mental illness.  Removing automatic weapons and other proposed gun control actions will only serve as a very dangerous band aid.  This would mean that the only people with these guns will be those who intend on causing harm to themselves and others.  Meth is illegal, yet so many people with no regard for the laws still have it, make it, use it, and sell it.  Guns would be no different.

The true problem is the mental stability of those who may do harm.  When these tragedies happen, it is always traced back to an unstable, mentally ill individual or group of individuals.  This is where the changes need to occur.

Yes, protect our kids, protect our citizens the best we can.  Yes, remove the assault weapons from the shelves of gun shops and gun shows.  However; the main focus needs to be on mental health and the ability to spot an unstable and potentially harmful individual.  Then we must find a way to help them or find a safe place to house them where they cannot harm themselves or others.

This is the only true solution to a complicated problem.  Register the mentally ill, work with them, assess them, and treat them accordingly.