Tanner Wilde, a veteran of the U.S. Army, has turned his personal struggles with mental health into a mission to help fellow veterans. After serving in Afghanistan, Syria, and Bangladesh, he faced significant challenges upon returning to civilian life, including depression and a sense of lost purpose. His journey from darkness to advocacy highlights the importance of mental health support for service members.
From Service to Struggle
Wilde joined the U.S. Army through its delayed entry program while still in high school, eager to explore the world and contribute to a larger cause. He rose through the ranks to become a special operations civil affairs team sergeant and medical sergeant, experiencing the complexities of military life at just 20 years old during his deployment to Afghanistan.
After concluding his service in 2021, Wilde grappled with the transition to civilian life. “I was searching for what my purpose was because the military is all I ever knew,” he recalled, reflecting on the challenges of finding joy and hope outside the military context. His mental health deteriorated, worsened by traumatic brain injuries and other stressors.
In 2023, Wilde faced a critical juncture when thoughts of suicide began to surface. “Thankfully, through my wife and many veteran-centric organizations that reached out to me, I was able to finally accept help,” he stated. This support helped him rediscover joy and a renewed sense of purpose.
Supporting Fellow Veterans
Now, Wilde dedicates his time to veteran outreach through various organizations, including the Veterans Affairs and volunteer work with groups like Nodens Outdoors and Believet Canine Service Partners. The latter provides service animals to veterans dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injuries, and other disabilities.
“It may not be what I was doing in the military, but being able to help veterans and those transitioning out of the military find hope is beyond rewarding,” Wilde noted. This Veterans Day, he and his service dog, Taz, engaged in outreach efforts, raising awareness of the invisible wounds many veterans face.
Wilde emphasized the need for resources, stating, “Service animals can cost thousands of dollars, and the only way to expand availability is to share our stories and the benefits they provide.” He credits Taz with playing a vital role in his healing journey.
Wilde encourages open conversations about mental health, asserting, “It’s okay to not be okay.” He highlights the importance of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, which offers support for veterans and others in need. “As hard as it is, there will be somebody that will listen,” he said, expressing a desire to help as many veterans as possible.
Community Support and Recognition
On Veterans Day, Wilde received a new high-efficiency furnace for his home in Mounds View, a donation made by The Snelling Company and local distributor Auer Steel. This gesture was a way to honor his service and ongoing commitment to the community.
Phil Krinkie, president of The Snelling Company, stated, “He served our country, fought his own battles, and now fights for others. This is just one way we can give back and thank him for his service.” For Wilde, who has moved 14 times during his military career, this donation represents stability and a sense of belonging in the community.
Wilde concluded by expressing gratitude for the support he has received and his commitment to helping others. “We’re in a wonderful community. Coming from the military, we’re very community-centric,” he said, reaffirming his dedication to service.
If you or someone you know needs immediate emotional or mental health support, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988lifeline.org or text 988 to connect with a trained specialist. For more resources on supporting veterans and mental health assistance, visit mentalhealth.va.gov/suicide_prevention.
