Document Type
Portfolio
Publication Date
Fall 2025
Abstract
Goal Statement: The goal of this project is to reduce suicide rates among veterans in Central Florida by strengthening protective factors, increasing access to culturally competent, trauma- informed care, and fostering community-based resilience networks that connect veterans, families, and local agencies. Significant Findings: Veteran suicide remains a critical public health concern in Florida, which continues to rank among the states with the highest veteran suicide rates (Florida Department of Health, 2025). Research indicates that approximately 17 veterans die by suicide each day nationwide (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs [VA], 2022). Key risk factors include post- traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, chronic pain, and substance misuse (Pietrzak et al., 2023). Social isolation and difficulty transitioning to civilian life further compound risk. Hispanic and Latino veterans in Central Florida face additional challenges due to language barriers, stigma, and limited access to culturally competent services (Benuto et al., 2019; Montano et al., 2022). Evidence supports trauma-informed prevention models and community- based peer interventions as effective strategies for reducing suicide risk (Comtois et al., 2019; Reger et al., 2022). Objectives/Strategies/Interventions/Next Steps: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Implement a bilingual Caring Contacts program within the Orlando VA Health Care System and community partner clinics to maintain post-discharge connection and reduce suicide risk (Comtois et al., 2019). Establish the Orange–Volusia Veteran Suicide Prevention Coalition in partnership with SMA Healthcare, VA coordinators, the 988/Veterans Crisis Line, and Hispanic-serving community organizations. Expand culturally competent counseling services by recruiting bilingual counselors and peer mentors trained in trauma-informed care and veteran-specific issues. Integrate resilience-building programs such as mindfulness, peer mentoring, and family support workshops to strengthen protective factors and social connection (Schafer, 2024). Advocate for sustainable county and state funding to support peer specialist reimbursement, bilingual crisis response, and community-based prevention initiatives in alignment with the Governor’s Challenge framework (Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs, n.d.). INTRODUCTION Veteran Suicide Prevention in Central Florida This Social Change Portfolio focuses on the urgent issue of veteran suicide in Central Florida, a region with a significant veteran population facing high mental health needs. Many veterans struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, substance use, and difficulties transitioning to civilian life, which can increase suicide risk (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs [VA], 2022). Florida continues to rank among the states with the highest rates of veteran suicides, underscoring the importance of prevention efforts tailored to this population (Florida Department of Health, 2025). Grounded in the Behavioral Health Continuum of Care Model, this project emphasizes prevention strategies, including peer mentoring, resilience workshops, and trauma-informed support systems (Parents Lead, n.d.). By combining public health approaches with counseling practices, this portfolio aims to strengthen protective factors, reduce stigma, and foster community resilience among veterans.
