05/09/2024
Matt was a vibrant 16-year-old, full of life and excitement. To celebrate getting his driver’s license, he and his friends spent hours joyfully driving around, lost in their newfound freedom. But their adventure took a tragic turn when they drifted into oncoming traffic. The accident claimed the lives of all three of Matt’s friends and the other driver.
The weight of survivor’s guilt, PTSD, depression, and anxiety overwhelmed Matt, leading him to the brink of su***de. Despite his parents' efforts to help him through intensive talk therapy, Matt couldn't bring himself to discuss the accident, and his suicidal thoughts only deepened.
In desperation, Matt’s parents found the Equine Partnership Program, a mental health organization that incorporates horses into psychotherapy. When Matt arrived, he was among the most suicidal clients they had ever encountered.
Gradually, as Matt began working with his equine partner, Jubee, something within him started to shift. The true turning point came unexpectedly during a lunging session, where Matt was learning to guide Jubee using voice commands and body language. Suddenly, Jubee bolted, and Matt found himself being dragged across the arena, refusing to let go of the lunge line.
When Jubee finally stopped, Matt remained silent for a long time. When he spoke, his words were profound: “I guess I really need to learn how to let go.”
This was a pivotal moment in Matt’s healing journey. They signified the beginning of his emotional release.
Over the following months, Matt continued working with Jubee, forming a deep bond that allowed him to gradually let go of the guilt and pain that had consumed him.
As we mark the beginning of , join us in raising awareness and supporting those in need of mental health support.
To read the full story, read our blog now: horsesformentalhealth.org/su***de-prevention-month
Special thanks to Equine Partnership Program for sharing Matt’s incredible story.
*This is a representative image and does not reflect the client's identity.*
