WASHINGTON (TND) — According to various reports, the suspect in the Maine mass shooting had mental health issues. The role mental health plays in mass shootings is not an easy answer.

Research from the National Institute of Justice shows the role of mental illness in mass shootings is not clear-cut. However, they found mental health issues were common among those engaged in mass shootings.

The 2022 study showed 30% of mass shooters were suicidal prior to the shooting.

In terms of past trauma, 31% of persons who perpetrated mass shootings were found to have experiences of severe childhood trauma, and over 80% were in crisis.

According to the report, “Mental health issues were common among those who engaged in mass shootings, with psychosis playing a minor role in nearly one-third of the cases, but a primary role 10% of the time.”

Advocates say mental health care must be prioritized across the board.

“Now, thankfully in the country, the stereotype about getting access when you need it is changing,” explained Colleen Creighton, Senior Director for End Family Fire at Brady.

Creighton said mental health care is becoming destigmatized, but she said it’s going to take more people speaking up to get people the help they need and prevent violence.

“Know your neighbors, know who lives next door, you know? If someone seems a little bit like they’re struggling, intervene,” Creighton suggested. “Ask you know, are you thinking of harming yourself? Are you thinking of harming others? You know, do you have access to a gun?”

If you or someone you know is struggling, please call 988, the nationwide mental health crisis and suicide prevention number.