The Benefits Of Equine Assisted Therapy For Mental Health Issues

 

The benefits of equine assisted therapy for mental health problems are numerous. In addition to physical benefits, it also reduces psychological anxiety, reduces pain from physical disabilities, and helps build trust between a therapist and a client. The following are just a few of these benefits. If you are thinking about trying equine therapy for mental health issues, be sure to read this article. It will provide you with some important tips to get started.

Reduces Psychological Anxiety

Horse assisted therapy is one way to reduce psychological anxiety. The therapist guides patients through horseback riding activities. The therapist will discuss how different behaviors from the horse stimulate different feelings in the patient. Because the horse senses danger, it may flee in response. Observing these changes, patients can challenge their own thoughts and feelings. Cognitive therapy usually requires the patient to remain calm and take responsibility for their thoughts and feelings.

Reduces Pain Associated With Physical Disabilities

There are several types of pain associated with physical disabilities, including neuropathic pain, which is caused by problems with tendons, muscles, and joints. This type of pain is often described as sharp, electric, burning, or aching. Those with physical disabilities are especially susceptible to neuropathic pain, which is also known as musculoskeletal pain. People who use manual wheelchairs for many years may experience musculoskeletal pain in their shoulders as a result of overuse.

Reduces Embarrassment

The equine-assisted therapy method provides immediate feedback and helps the client to learn to communicate effectively and achieve goals. As a result, it reduces embarrassment and the child's fear of being exposed to the public. In addition, the therapeutic experience builds a child's sense of self-acceptance, a key component of resilience. The benefits of equine assisted therapy are numerous.

Builds Trust Between Client And Therapist

The benefits of equine assisted therapy are many. For one, patients who engage in horse therapy experience immediate feedback about their actions. This allows therapists to assess the client's current state and help him or her set appropriate goals. Furthermore, equine therapy builds trust between client and therapist because it provides the patient with a chance to be as open as possible about his or her thoughts and feelings.

Reduces Depression

Equine-Assisted Therapy is a therapeutic approach that promotes positive self-concept and identity development in children. Children involved in the therapy develop patience and self-control, and are exposed to new experiences and feelings. Children also experience a sense of connection with nature, which enhances the therapeutic benefits. This therapy is especially beneficial for children who struggle with impulse control and emotion regulation. This is because the interaction between the children and the horse helps them develop skills of emotional awareness, regulation, and self-control.