UNITED WE HEAL

April 5th, 2025

​When I founded BRAVE Together, it was driven by one simple yet powerful idea: to create a space where individuals can confront their mental health challenges, particularly the vast array of PTSD symptoms, with support and compassion. This work is incredibly personal to me, shaped by both my experiences in the military and as a police officer, as well as the loss of my best friend and cousin. This decorated combat veteran took his own life while serving, without any noticeable signs or warnings to those around him.

The Need for a Safe Community

In my career as a police officer, I’ve witnessed the emotional toll that repeated trauma takes on first responders and veterans. These individuals often feel isolated, unable to ask for help, and overwhelmed by the pressures of their roles. I’ve seen how crucial it is to provide a space where vulnerability is not seen as a weakness but as a strength. That’s why BRAVE Together was created—to offer a supportive environment where people can be open, connect, and heal.

A Personal Commitment to Mental Health Advocacy

The tragic loss of my cousin to suicide was a wake-up call. It motivated me to understand the mental health struggles faced by those who serve our communities and our country. Since then, I’ve made it my mission to support veterans, first responders, and anyone in crisis, offering mentorship, guidance, and a compassionate ear. I’ve seen firsthand how life-changing proper support can be, and I wanted to ensure that others have access to the same support from a peer's perspective.

Healing Through Connection

What I’ve learned over the years is that healing happens when we come together. Whether through mentoring new officers or offering emotional support to a veteran, I've seen how powerful it is when people share their struggles and lean on each other for strength. BRAVE Together is a space where anxiety and mental health challenges don’t have to be faced alone. Together, we can break the stigma and find healing.​

BRAVE Together is just the beginning. It is a starting point for those who are seeking help, but the true strength of this program lies within the community of each service member. It is in the connections they build with one another, in the shared experiences and support they offer, where the real healing begins.

My Christian faith has played a significant role in my own healing journey. It has been my foundation of strength, compassion, and purpose, guiding me through the darkest moments and fueling my passion to help others find hope and healing as well. My belief that we are all called to serve and support one another is at the heart of BRAVE Together and continues to drive everything I do.

Due to the deeply sensitive nature of this work, the stigma surrounding mental health, and the profound need for privacy, I have made the decision not to disclose my name. This isn’t about personal recognition; it's about creating a space where individuals can seek help without fear of judgment or exposure. The people we serve—veterans and first responders—deserve a safe environment, one where their anonymity is respected and their pain is validated. What matters most is not who I am, but that BRAVE Together exists to offer support, guidance, and hope to those in need. This work transcends individual identities—it is about making a lasting, positive impact on those who have too long been ignored or overlooked.

If you or someone you know is struggling, I encourage you to reach out for help.

Authored by BRAVE Together Founder, Matt Thompson, Washington State