What You Should Know:
- ReflexAI, the leading provider of AI-powered training and quality assurance tools for crisis response, emergency dispatch, and healthcare organizations, launched HomeTeam, a digital training tool that teaches veterans how to support each other with mental health challenges.
- Developed with support from Google.org, the free platform includes educational modules that cover high-priority topics in mental health support, followed by AI-powered chat simulations that enable veterans to practice lifelike conversations in a low-risk, confidential setting.
Improving the Lives and Mental Health of Veterans Across the Country
The suicide rate among veterans is a public health crisis. Seventeen veterans die by suicide every day, which is 1.5 times the rate of non-veterans. ReflexAI’s research with hundreds of veterans nationwide showed that 92 percent are willing to help another veteran experiencing a mental health challenge, but only 25 percent feel prepared to do so. ReflexAI built HomeTeam to bridge this gap. By teaching veterans about the warning signs of mental health crises and how to support peers in crisis, HomeTeam provides the skills and confidence needed for successful, real-life interactions that have a life-changing impact.
“As people increasingly rely on remote interactions in sensitive situations, there is a crucial need for technology that fosters human connection,” said Sam Dorison, cofounder and CEO at ReflexAI. “Our research shows that the average combat veteran stays in regular contact with six other veterans. A single veteran trained by HomeTeam could support several other veterans, while inspiring even more to complete HomeTeam training themselves – creating a massive network effect.”
The founders of ReflexAI initially crossed paths while working as executives at The Trevor Project, the world’s largest organization dedicated to preventing suicide and providing crisis intervention for LGBTQ youth. During their time there, they spearheaded the development of groundbreaking AI-powered crisis contact simulation technology, gaining national recognition for their innovation. Now, with HomeTeam, they are extending the proven impact of this life-saving technology to the veteran community.
The idea for HomeTeam emerged when ReflexAI, having been selected as a finalist for Mission Daybreak—a $20M grant challenge by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) aimed at addressing veteran suicide—applied for Google.org grant funding. In addition to their commitment to supporting the VA, ReflexAI identified the need for a training tool accessible to the wider veteran community. In 2022, with $1.25M in grant funding from Google.org, along with the support of 18 Google.org Fellows and pro-bono work from Google employees, the company embarked on this initiative.
ReflexAI collaborated with leading experts, independent clinicians specializing in veteran mental health and suicide prevention, and over 500 veterans whose insights played a pivotal role in shaping HomeTeam’s content and simulations. Moreover, ReflexAI has formed partnerships with nonprofit organizations like the Purple Heart Foundation, Overwatch+Project, and Irreverent Warriors, aiming to ensure that HomeTeam reaches a diverse range of veterans. Together, these collaborations aim to expand access to crucial education that has the potential to save countless lives.
