Dogs often prove to be an effective tool in assisting with emotional needs. It has been demonstrated that emotional support and therapy animals can provide tangible results in creating emotional healing and stability. This can correlate to a reduction in suicides, and create a sense of purpose.

Horses are some of the most majestic and magnificent animals on earth. Like dogs, working with and around horses can be therapeutic in nature. The emotional intuitiveness and connection required to work with horses provide several emotional benefits at the same time. Horses are a mirror, and directly respond — or don’t respond — to the emotion and energy we bring to the interaction.

One of the most difficult things for many combat veterans, is to talk about their experiences. Paradoxically, one of the most important things for combat veterans, is to talk about their experiences. Every veteran needs to talk to somebody. A large reality in the veteran community, is that many, perhaps even a majority, of veterans do not talk about or share their experiences, especially with counselors or other professionals. It’s hard to do, however, it’s the healthy thing to do.

Female veterans who have been victims of sexual abuse or assault, which is still rampant within the military, are far too often overlooked in the military and veteran community. The military is full of good people, willing to do remarkable things. Unfortunately, the military also has a problem with sexual assault and a culture that seems unable to adequately address this terrible issue.

Creating stability in daily living is part of the overall goal and mission of Charlie Mike. Once mental and emotional stability are created, daily living will get easier, be better, and more productive. The issues are complex and challenging, but the approach is simple. Helping veterans find and learn tools to become self-reliant is the best gift we can provide. Like the old adage says, “give a man a fish, feed him for a day; teach a man to fish, feed him for a lifetime.” This daily stability will provide a foundation for participants to sustain themselves for the rest of their lives.

As much as veterans miss their teams, they miss the service. It is a very real and tangible longing. In the volunteer force of the U.S. Military, everyone joins for various reasons. The service aspect, however, is an integral part of the job, and is instilled by every branch of the military. Once discharged, those who have deployed often miss the high tempo, the austere environment, the challenge, and yes, even the danger. Very few things in life will ever compare to or compete with wartime service. Even with all the good and bad associated with it, nothing will ever quite measure up. And that causes a lack of stability as veterans struggle to find meaning in “normal life.”