The rigorous demands and expectations of military service, which includes deployments, training, and the inherent dangers involved, can be quite taxing and can have a severe negative impact on mental health that can have lasting effects for a lifetime. It can often result in psychological problems that become a crisis. Among these concerns, suicide continues to be a serious challenge that needs urgent attention and treatment. Discussing suicide is often seen as taboo and can be an uncomfortable topic, but talking about it openly is critical for prevention and support.
This program supports the Unity Agenda of the Biden-Harris administration, which aims to increase veterans’ prospects and well-being. Specifically designed for people with impairments, adaptive sports can be competitive or recreational pursuits. Alpine skiing, powerlifting, cycling, snowboarding, and archery are just a handful of the many sports available. In addition to providing physical, mental, and emotional health benefits, support networks give veterans a sense of friendship and a physical outlet from stress.
Engaging in enjoyable hobbies and adapted sports can be life-changing for veterans. These things can drastically change someone’s life; it’s not simply about continuing to be active. The significance of this cannot be overstated because many veterans, particularly those who live with impairments, encounter particular difficulties when they return to civilian life. It’s incredible to see how getting involved improves veterans’ mood and overall health. They also end up making some long-term friends and relationships in the community. It is quite astounding when you witness it for yourself; we didn’t anticipate it having such a profound effect.
Jataya Taylor, a veteran of the US Marine Corps, is an excellent representation of the critical benefits of adaptive sports. Wheelchair fencing and other adaptive sports provided Taylor with comfort and a new purpose following her battles with mental health issues. There’s more to it than just being ready for Taylor and the other veterans. For many veterans, these activities serve as a vital link to other veterans who understand their situation. For their emotional health, it’s enormous—Taylor even refers to it as her “saving grace.”
They also support equine therapy, which enables veterans to work with horses, aiding in balance and posture. The veterans’ overall well-being is greatly improved by this therapy, especially their mental health. In order to recover from trauma and rebuild their confidence, many veterans develop strong emotional bonds with the horses.
The VA has been running the Adaptive Sports Program for about nine years now, and it has received over $119 million in funding. Allowing veterans to engage in physically and mentally beneficial activities is really making a difference. In addition, it’s uniting individuals who have encountered comparable circumstances. Roughly sixteen million have already been distributed this year alone. This only serves to emphasize how truly committed the VA is to enhancing the quality of life and overall well-being of veterans. Not only are they speaking the talk, but they are also behaving the part.
Reaching a wider audience through these initiatives would only benefit veterans’ physical and emotional well-being and allow them to lead fulfilling lives as active, contributing members of society.
Visit VA Adaptive Sports for more information on the VA’s Adaptive Sports Grant Program and a complete list of awardees.