I have never reached for my gun during a depressive episode. I have 2 family members who did and I have experienced first hand the havoc it causes on everyone else.

I keep a small revolver in the house for protection only. In fact it has only been fired once since I bought it and I wasn't the user. I am a member of the NRA and have taken the concealed weapons class.

I think it actually depends on the person and the severity of their illness.

Just my thoughts.....