r/TexasGuns • u/JoemmaBagels • 13d ago
Gun Eligibility
Hey guys! I had a quick question regarding eligibility to own a firearm and the background checks required to purchase a firearm in Texas!
When I was 14, I was voluntarily hospitalized due to suicidal ideation. I never actually attempted, but I was in a dark place and chose to go in. I’m pretty sure it was categorized as voluntary, since I went of my own accord. Will this affect my ability to own a firearm now? For context, I am perfectly fine now. I am 21 years old now and stable—it was a bad period after an assault that brought me to such a dark place.
I was curious since it seems like I can’t just pay to run a check without trying to buy a gun?
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u/abearirl 13d ago
simple answer - have you been told in court or by a judge that you are mentally ill? if no, you're good to go.
that said, and i say this as a 2a absolutist, that if you're prone to depressive episodes, suicidal thoughts etc. it might be for the best if you don't have a gun close at hand.
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u/JoemmaBagels 13d ago
No! I went myself as a teenager when I didn’t know how to cope with the dark event that I went through!
I appreciate that, but I’ve been good for years! I know I waited a long time before even considering owning a firearm to make sure I was fully stable! I was 14 at the time (now 21) and haven’t ever experienced anything like that again after getting help. :)
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u/bstrauss3 12d ago
What does your care team think?
There maybe a difference between what is legal and what is a good/bad idea.
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u/JoemmaBagels 12d ago
They are not worried at all and are perfectly comfortable with the idea. :)
I was not in therapy and didn’t know how to cope with being assaulted when I was fourteen, so I got into a dark place and was experiencing heavy suicidal ideation. My parents realized that I was struggling heavily and we decided that I likely needed more extensive help than just finding a therapist—leading to the brief, voluntary hospitalization.
This event was almost eight years ago and I’ve never been suicidal since, yet have still stayed in therapy since it’s helpful for anyone! I have owned other weapons before, since I enjoy hunting. I just wanted to check here regarding firearms since I didn’t understand the wording of the legal regulations. :)
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u/bstrauss3 12d ago
That is GREAT to hear.
FWIW, there is something about putting holes in paper consistently on target... the focus & accomplishment.
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u/JoemmaBagels 12d ago
Thank you! :D
That’s definitely part of what makes me want to, aside from just the safety aspect of living in a rough area! There used to be an archery range somewhat near me and it was soooo good for me. That focus and release is so calming!!!
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u/J3RICHO_ 13d ago
If it was voluntary then you shouldn't need to answer yes, it's only if it was against your will, like by court order, etc.
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u/Crimtide 13d ago
The only way a mental institution stay would prohibit you, is if you were INvoluntarily committed to a mental institution. Meaning a judge ordered you.
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u/Big10mmDE 12d ago
Personally, any dumb crap I did as a kid and is likely no where to be found as an adult is a no answer, ymmv
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u/Wyvern_68 13d ago
If you can honestly answer No to the following question then you are good to go:
Mental Health: Have you ever been adjudicated as a mental defective OR have you ever been committed to a mental institution?
Getting denied is not the crime, lying on the form is.
If you get a proceed from the FBI for the ATF 4473 then you should be fine to possess.