Hope in motion: A collaborative approach to suicide prevention at VA Fayetteville Coastal Health Care System

The system unites multiple agencies under a shared mission and believes that addressing mental health is a public health matter that affects families and communities. Central to this initiative is The Link coalition. This group brings together the VA Suicide Prevention Team, the Department of Defense Suicide Prevention team, Veterans Bridge Home, the Stephen A Cohen Military Family Clinic at Centerstone, and the Fayetteville Vet Center.

Upstream Prevention for Lasting Impact
The Fayetteville approach stresses the importance of preventing crisis before it occurs. Providers work to build resilience and foster healthy connections in everyday spaces. One leader explains the idea behind early intervention by stating, "Upstream prevention means addressing the conditions where people live, work and seek hope long before a crisis emerges." Establishing safe and supportive environments enables Veterans to access care quickly while reducing the long-term effects on their families and communities.

Community Collaboration Through The Link
The Link coalition embodies a collaborative spirit that ensures no single agency is solely responsible for preventing suicide. As Kendra Danzer explains, "The Link is a group of five organizations that come together to build a community coalition around suicide prevention. We share our expertise to connect Veterans with the care they need." 

Al Lampkins of Veterans Bridge Home adds, "At the end of every one of these events someone comes and asks me who is in charge. I always tell them it is not one single person or organization that is in charge, but it is The Link because it is the chain that connects us all." Through this partnership if a Veteran is connected with one partner, then this network can provide additional support by linking the Veteran to the service they need. A strong network of communication among professionals across organizations makes wraparound care possible for each Veteran.

Interdisciplinary Teams and Integrated Care
VA Fayetteville Coastal Health Care System supports an interdisciplinary approach that brings together mental health providers, psychiatrists, social workers, chaplains, and holistic care professionals in an integrated care environment. Team members work side by side to offer immediate crisis care and long-term support. An example of this model is how behavioral health specialists work with physical therapists and chaplains to reduce stigma while encouraging Veterans to speak openly about their challenges. This collaborative care environment makes every Veteran feel safe and understood.

Breaking the Stigma Around Mental Health
Breaking the silence surrounding mental health is a central part of the system strategy. Many Veterans have grown up in cultures that value stoicism and tend to keep personal struggles hidden. Col. John Ko (FORSCOM) explained, "It is important to speak openly about our mental health struggles so that we can let people know that asking for help is a sign of strength not a weakness." Regular community events such as Hope in Motion allow Veterans and service members to engage in open conversation and see that mental health concerns are a normal part of life. The system works to create an environment where every individual feels valued and supported.

An essential skill that supports the collaborative method is the ability to listen to understand rather than listening simply to respond. Providers are taught to be present and compassionate in every interaction. As Charisse Sloane-Seale, LCSW stated, "Sometimes the most powerful action you can take is to simply be present with someone and let them know they are not alone." This focus on empathetic listening builds trust and helps ensure that Veterans are given the right support services.

Spiritual Care and Holistic Support
Mental health recovery is not a one-dimensional process. Recognizing the role of spirit and meaning in healing the system includes strong spiritual care and support from faith-based groups. Veterans and service members often turn first to a trusted chaplain or pastor in times of crisis. The integrated care model ensures that spiritual guidance is combined with clinical care to address the full spectrum of a Veteran’s needs. By honoring everyone’s beliefs and values the system helps foster overall wellbeing and lasting hope.

Call to Action: A Community United
VA Fayetteville Coastal Health Care System and The Link coalition want to do more than simply provide programs. They promote a movement that calls on each community member whether provider family member or Veteran to participate actively in suicide prevention. Members of The Link frequently emphasize that no single agency holds authority but instead it is a collective effort among organizations aimed at providing hope for those in need. This reminder highlights the profound impact that even a simple act of kindness or a supportive conversation can have on someone's life.

Sustaining Upstream Approach
By combining upstream prevention strategies with interdisciplinary care and strong community collaboration VA Fayetteville Coastal Health Care System stands as an inspiring example of what can be achieved when organizations unite behind a shared mission. The integrated approach is an effort to save lives and create a resilient community where every Veteran has the chance to heal and thrive. Through ongoing action and dedication hope is truly made to move.