2025 IW Data Study

Irreverent Warriors Survey Highlights Life-Saving Impact

For many veterans, the transition to civilian life can be isolating, challenging, and emotionally draining. The need for community, support, and purpose is paramount in reducing veteran suicide, which takes 22 lives per day in the US. A new survey analyzing the impact of Irreverent Warriors (IW) events and programs reveals just how life-changing this community has been for thousands of veterans. IW conducts 60+ hikes and retreats across the US annually, with ~100,000 alumni, and annual attendance of ~10,000.

The Data Tells a Powerful Story

This study of qualitative before-and-after survey data was conducted on 2024-2025 IW volunteers and newsletter recipients, and has a 90% confidence level with a 10% error margin. The results demonstrate the substantial positive influence IW has had on veteran mental health:

• 57% of veterans reported their suicidal ideation fully stopped or significantly improved after attending IW events.

• 65% of veterans saw their feelings of despair fully stop or significantly improve.

• 41% of veterans who previously struggled with substance abuse saw major improvement after joining IW.

• 40% of IW participants are female (11% of veterans are female)

  
  

A Unique Approach to Healing

Unlike traditional mental health programs, IW brings veterans together in a way that feels natural and familiar… through humor, camaraderie, and shared experiences. The flagship Silkies Hikes and other events foster deep connections that go beyond just a single day; they create a lifelong support network.

Veterans who attend IW events report a renewed sense of purpose, belonging, and resilience. The ability to connect with others who truly understand their struggles, without stigma or judgment, has been life-saving for many.

Impact Breakdown: Before and After IW

• Suicidal Ideation: Before IW, 34% of respondents reported experiencing suicidal ideation at least monthly. After participating in IW events, 57% saw significant improvement or a complete cessation of these thoughts.

• Despair and Hopelessness: Before IW, 50% of veterans reported experiencing daily or weekly despair. After IW, 65% reported significant improvement, and 8% fully stopped experiencing despair. In terms of hopelessness, 56% saw improvement, with 18% reporting a complete elimination of hopelessness.

• Substance Abuse: Before IW, 22% of respondents engaged in daily or weekly substance use. After attending IW events, 41% reported improvement, with 35% fully stopping substance use.

  
  

Voices from the Community

Survey participants shared their experiences, revealing just how much IW has meant to them:

"IW helped me rediscover the sense of brotherhood and purpose I had lost since leaving the military."

"I went from barely having anyone to talk to, to having more people than I can count who I can depend on."

"IW is not just an organization; it’s a family. A tribe that lifts each other up."

"Before IW, I had no sense of purpose, no clear direction. Now, I’m stronger, more confident, and surrounded by people who truly care."

Why This Matters

The veteran suicide crisis is a critical national issue. 160,000+ veterans have died by suicide since 9/11. While many organizations work to address this problem, IW’s approach is unique, effective, and needed. By building an organic, peer-driven support system, IW is making a tangible difference in the lives of those who have served. Last year, the Dept of Defense spent an additional $200 million on increasing suicide prevention through traditional methods. The results? A 12% increase in active-duty military suicides. The status quo in suicide prevention is not working. 

This survey confirms what many in the IW community already knew… veterans heal best when they heal together in non-traditional ways.

Looking Forward

IW remains committed to expanding its programs and reaching even more veterans in need. The mission is clear: No veteran fights alone.

If you or a veteran you know could benefit from this incredible community, now is the time to get involved. Healing happens here, and every veteran deserves the chance to be part of something bigger than themselves.