11/13/2024
We recently honored our Veterans for Veterans Day. We honor those who have courageously served our country. Yet for many Veterans, the challenges don’t end when they return home. Mental health struggles, including symptoms of post-traumatic stress, depression, anxiety, and relationship difficulties, can deeply impact their lives. Horses for Mental Health (HMH) is proud to raise awareness of the transformative role horses can play in empowering Veterans and supporting their mental health journeys toward healing.
Through the efforts of qualified, professionally trained organizations in equine-assisted services and the expansion of funding opportunities, Veterans can access essential mental health and personal growth programs involving horses. These services help them reconnect with themselves and their communities, fostering resilience and well-being.
A Veteran’s Story of Transformation
This story of transformation comes from our Charity Partner, Spring Reins of Life. A Veteran was experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and joined the program to find healing and peace. Throughout one particular session, Syriana, a thoroughbred mare, kept approaching him, then trotting off toward the center of the arena, almost as if he was inviting him to follow. It didn’t make sense at first, but when the facilitators encouraged him to engage with the horse, something remarkable happened.
The next time Syriana trotted away, the Veteran ran with him. They stopped together, side by side, in the center of the arena, and Syriana touched his elbow with his nose. Then, he trotted off again, and this time, he followed without hesitation. Soon, they were running shoulder to shoulder, horse and man, in perfect sync. The rest of the team stood in silent awe.
At the end of the session, the Veteran shared that when things became tense at home during his childhood, he would run—miles at a time—until he felt calm. Syriana, somehow, had reminded him of his passion and method to calm down which was something essential to his recovery. Later, the Veteran shared with Spring Reins of Life that he found a renewed sense of purpose and that he now runs ultramarathon races in “honor of Syriana”.
How Horses Help Veterans
🐴 Fostering Trust and Emotional Connection
Engaging with horses in a non-verbal therapeutic setting offers significant benefits for Veterans, especially those who find it challenging to openly discuss traumatic experiences. This environment provides a safe and supportive space for healing and connection without the need for words.
💙 Reducing PTSD and Depression Symptoms
Programs like the Man O' War Project show that over 50% of veterans experience lasting improvements in PTSD and depression symptoms after participating in horse-based therapy.
🫂 Rebuilding Confidence and Strengthening Relationships
Through interactions with horses, Veterans can strengthen their emotional regulation, bringing a sense of peace and calm while healing relationships with themselves and others. This process supports their recovery from traumatic experiences and eases the transition back into civilian life.
Why We Do This Work
📈 Veteran Su***de Rates
Veterans are roughly 71.8% more likely to die by su***de than non-veterans —a stark reminder of the hidden scars of service and the challenges of reintegration. (VA)
🧠Prevalence of Mental Health Conditions in Veterans
In the United States, approximately 1.1 million Veterans are diagnosed with mental health conditions, including depression, PTSD, substance use disorders, anxiety, and schizophrenia/bipolar disorder. This statistic underscores the critical need for accessible, comprehensive mental health support for those who have served. (NIH)
We are thankful we get to serve Veterans through Equine Therapy everyday through our partnership with Ohio First Responder Grants.
