Psychosocial Equine Program for Veterans

Soc Work. 2016 Jan;61(1):53-60. doi: 10.1093/sw/swv054.

Abstract

Nearly half of all combat veterans suffer from serious psychological disorders and reintegration issues. Veterans shy away from typical talk therapy and are seeking alternative treatments. Equine-facilitated mental health therapy has shown promise in treating veterans with depressive and anxiety disorders and reintegration issues. This article reports on an institutional review board-approved pilot program designed to address the mental health needs of veterans. Furthermore, this article discusses future directions for evolving development of equine treatment programming.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Animals
  • Equine-Assisted Therapy*
  • Female
  • Horses
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mental Disorders / therapy*
  • Middle Aged
  • Pilot Projects
  • Psychotherapy / methods*
  • Social Work / organization & administration*
  • Treatment Outcome
  • United States
  • Veterans / psychology*