Absolutely, 100%, and we've had some real success stories over the years with various programs we've put on.
I can give an example. One case we had was a very hardened special operator who spent years in the forces and suffered pretty badly from PTSD symptoms. When he took our two-day workshop at The Veterans Ranch in B.C., CBC came up and did interviews. He wanted to say his bit in front of the camera and CBC, and he actually broke down and said that this was the best he'd felt in years.
You're exactly right. We have a very meditative process. You're focused 100% on what you're doing, so your mind is clear. That seems to be an issue with a lot of vets suffering from mental health issues: Their minds are going a million times a minute. However, when you're blacksmithing, you have to focus on what you're doing. Otherwise, you get hurt, and pain is a great motivator for focus.
Luckily, I've taught thousands of people and we've never had an incident, and I want to keep it that way. We're very safety-conscious, but it always has to be in the back of the mind. I think that does help.
Also, creating something with your hands is very good for people. I think everyone should have some sort of creative outlet. We've introduced so many people to this, both civilians and veterans, throughout the years.