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Miami VA Hosts Successful 2024 Suicide Prevention Mental Health Summit

Hillary P. Peabody, Acting Assistant Under Secretary for Health for Integrated Veteran Care, addresses attendees
Hillary P. Peabody, Acting Assistant Under Secretary for Health for Integrated Veteran Care, addresses attendees at the 2024 Miami VA Suicide Prevention Mental Health Summit.
By Donald Bohanner, Public Affairs Officer

The Miami VA Healthcare System hosted a successful 2024 Suicide Prevention Mental Health Summit on Tuesday, Sept. 24, at the William "Bill" Kling Clinic, bringing together community leaders, healthcare professionals, and VA experts to address mental health and suicide prevention for Veterans.

The summit featured discussions on suicide prevention strategies, trauma-informed care, psychosocial recovery, and the COMPACT Act, which expands mental health care access for Veterans.

“This summit provided a platform for us to engage in meaningful discussions and further solidify our dedication to supporting the mental health needs of our Veterans and their families,” said Kalautie JangDhari, executive director of the Miami VA Healthcare System. “We remain committed to offering the tools, resources, and support that Veterans need on their journey to recovery.”

“Events like this are crucial for us to connect with our Veterans and to share a message of hope,” explained Hillary P. Peabody, Acting Assistant Under Secretary for Health for Integrated Veteran Care. “We want every Veteran to know that the VA is here for you, standing by your side. It is an absolute honor for us to serve you with the same dedication and commitment with which you served our country.”

The summit brought together notable community partners and attendees participated in both live and virtual sessions that provided practical tools to address mental health challenges and prevent suicide among Veterans.

Participants left with increased knowledge, including strategies for identifying risk factors for suicide, utilizing therapeutic tools to address trauma, and understanding the role of the COMPACT Act in expanding mental health care access.

The summit emphasized the importance of continued collaboration between the VA and community organizations to improve mental health care for Veterans. Attendees left empowered and better equipped to serve Veterans, ensuring the strength of these collaborative efforts moving forward.