AdventHealth Porter supports veterans beyond clinical care through ongoing mental health and suicide prevention initiatives. On May 23, 2025, the hospital hosted a Mental Health Fair, where veterans received pistol safes and information about mental health resources. The event built on a 2024 partnership with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and Face the Fight to promote safe firearm storage and suicide prevention. To date, the initiative has distributed more than 100 trigger locks to veterans and civilians, along with 47 gun safes for veterans. The hospital also connected veterans with AdventHealth behavioral health specialists and shared information about the Veterans Crisis Line by calling or texting 988.
AdventHealth Porter has also trained team members in Family Firearm Safety Training (FFAST) through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, equipping them with tools to help veterans and their families develop crisis response and safe firearm storage plans. Clinicians have also received training to better support female veterans experiencing mental health challenges, including those affected by military sexual trauma.
Why We Did It
The transition from military to civilian life can be challenging for many veterans. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, 1 in 3 veterans experience symptoms of depression. Stop Soldier Suicide reports that more than 140,000 veterans have died by suicide since 2001, and veteran firearm suicides have increased by 65% during that time.
These statistics reinforce the need for accessible suicide prevention efforts that help reduce risk and support veterans and their families. Promoting safe firearm storage and expanding access to firearm safety education can create additional opportunities for intervention during times of crisis, reinforcing AdventHealth’s commitment to improving veteran well-being and helping save lives.
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