Cohen Veterans Network Launches New Initiative for Lethal Means Safety
Supported by Face the Fight®, Cohen Veterans Network (CVN), a prominent global not-for-profit organization dedicated to improving mental health for post-9/11 veterans, has announced an important study aimed at reducing the suicide rate among veterans. This research seeks to identify effective ways to communicate with veterans about lethal means safety (LMS), a crucial strategy to promote safe firearm storage and help prevent suicide.
With over 70% of veteran suicide deaths involving firearms, this project comes at a pivotal moment. The Department of Veterans Affairs reports that safe firearm storage can decrease the chance of suicide by as much as four times. Still, conversations around firearm safety are often met with hesitance due to fears surrounding privacy and stigma.
Dr. Anthony Hassan, the President and CEO of Cohen Veterans Network, expressed the importance of this initiative, stating, "With support from Face the Fight, this project will help save lives by overcoming significant barriers in veteran suicide prevention, facilitating productive conversations about lethal means safety. Our aim is to turn research insights into actionable tools that uplift and empower veterans and their families to create safer environments."
As part of this effort, CVN plans to analyze how various firearm safety messages resonate with military-affiliated individuals. Through a comprehensive study of 500 participants, the network will pinpoint the most effective strategies for engaging veterans and service members in these critical discussions. The outcome will be a toolkit rich in adaptable, evidence-based strategies, which will be shared freely with the suicide prevention community.
The Cohen Veterans Network Institute for Quality (CVN-IQ) will oversee the study. This dedicated research institute is focused on fostering innovation and advancing mental health practices for veterans and their families. The toolkit will aim to enable clinicians and stakeholders to conduct culturally responsive conversations about lethal means safety.
Chris Ford from Face the Fight remarked on the collaboration, saying, "Face the Fight is proud to support Cohen Veterans Network as we address a crucial gap in suicide prevention through enhanced messaging around lethal means safety. Together, we are working towards innovative solutions that prioritize the health and well-being of our service members, veterans, and their families."
Cohen Veterans Network was selected along with 26 other organizations for funding as part of Face the Fight's sustained investment in community-driven suicide prevention. Since its founding in 2023, Face the Fight has committed over $42 million to initiatives aimed at supporting veterans at risk and enhancing access to necessary clinical care.
Dr. David Linkh, the Director of CVN-IQ, emphasized the urgency of this research by stating, "Fostering effective lethal means safety communications is vital to our suicide prevention strategy. By determining what messages resonate with veterans, we can transform valuable insights into practical tools that enhance safety and ultimately save lives."
This new research reinforces previous impactful initiatives funded by Face the Fight, including professional training sessions on lethal means safety conversations and the introduction of essential toolkits designed to support mental health professionals.
Since its establishment in 2016, CVN has delivered over 856,000 clinical sessions to more than 94,000 clients facing various mental health challenges, such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and relationship issues. Care is offered through a network of clinics operating in multiple states, ensuring that veterans receive support close to home.
About Cohen Veterans Network
Cohen Veterans Network (CVN) is a philanthropic organization focused on serving post-9/11 veterans, active duty service members, and their families. Founded in 2016 with a generous commitment from philanthropist Steven A. Cohen, CVN aims to improve mental health outcomes through a holistic approach to care delivered by trained professionals in local outpatient clinics. To learn more about CVN, visit their official website.
About Face the Fight®
Face the Fight® is an initiative created to unite numerous partners in the mission to significantly reduce veteran suicide by the year 2032. This movement encourages a cultural shift toward seeking help as a sign of strength, ensuring every veteran and their loved ones are fully supported. For additional resources and information, visit their official website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main goal of Cohen Veterans Network's new initiative?
The initiative aims to identify effective communication strategies regarding lethal means safety to help prevent veteran suicides.
Who is supporting the research initiative?
The research is supported by Face the Fight®, which has partnered with CVN to enhance veteran suicide prevention efforts.
What is lethal means safety (LMS)?
Lethal means safety refers to strategies promoting the safe storage of firearms and other tools during crises to reduce the risk of suicide.
How many participants will be involved in the study?
Approximately 500 participants will be surveyed to determine the most effective ways to discuss firearm safety with veterans and service members.
What types of mental health issues does CVN address?
Cohen Veterans Network addresses a range of mental health conditions, including PTSD, depression, anxiety, and relationship challenges.
