Today, ReflexAI announced Google’s support to use the ReflexAI methodology in novel ways and to develop a training tool that will empower veterans to better support each other through mental health challenges. Google.org will directly support ReflexAI’s work on veterans’ mental health through a $1 million grant and through the use of a team of Google.org Fellows who will work full-time alongside the ReflexAI team for six months on a pro bono basis .
“We are excited to be collaborating with Google to expand the use of ReflexAI’s tools and support the mental health of veterans,” said Sam Dorison, CEO and co-founder of ReflexAI. “As we look to 2023 and beyond, innovation will be critical to addressing the mental health crises for veterans and other vulnerable populations.”
Over 6,000 veterans died by suicide in 2020, the latest year for which data is available. The US The Department of Veterans Affairs has identified suicide prevention as its “top clinical priority” and recently launched its Mission Daybreak Accelerator to support innovative solutions. ReflexAI is a finalist in the accelerator that served as the catalyst for this new initiative.
“ReflexAI strives to create products that deliver the greatest value to users,” said John Callery, co-founder and chief product & technology officer at ReflexAI. “Our research shows that veterans are often supportive of one another and can play an important role in encouraging their peers to seek professional help at critical moments.”
Google.org previously helped the Trevor Project develop an AI-powered training tool that enabled significant growth of Trevor’s crisis utilities and was named one of TIME’s “100 Best Inventions of 2021.” ReflexAI co-founders were previously leaders of The Trevor Project.
“Google has always believed that technology can be a force for good,” said Jacquelline Fuller, president of Google.org. “We are particularly committed to empowering organizations that use technology responsibly to support vulnerable populations in ways that can have even greater impact.”