22 a day

In 2017, almost 13% of veterans discharged from the military were diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and roughly 20-35% were diagnosed with a range of depression and anxiety. These numbers are staggering, and substantially higher than the general population. This makes sense when looking at the amount of stressful situations service members are exposed to. While there is a lack of research done concerning the exact numbers of diagnosis during and after service, there is no doubt that veterans are suffering from mental illness at a much higher rate than non service members.

With the amount of PTSD and related disorders experienced by veterans, an average of 22 veterans commit suicide each day. That is 22 too many! There are forms of therapy, medication, and other treatment available but I believe there is a more unconventional approach. Service dogs are becoming increasingly popular among veterans diagnosed with PTSD. My goal is to reach even more veterans and service members that are in need of a companion, who may not be officially diagnosed with a mental illness.

Through Warrior Companions screening process and partnership with surrounding animal rescue shelters and organizations, our goal is to find homes for more pets, and companions for vets that need some help. If we can reach veterans that are not getting systematic treatment, I truly believe that we can reduce the number of suicides and save two lives at once.