evidence: Experts say suicide deaths can be unpredictable, but are preventable. Research has found that most attempters act on impulse, but once the acute feelings ease, the vast majority do not go on to die by suicide. Recent studies have also shown a link between 48-hour waiting periods to purchase guns and suicide deaths by firearm. Though further research may be needed, many have found that such waiting periods have at least a moderate effect on reducing those deaths.