Cowboy Hats and Spurs Not Required

Have you heard of equine therapy?

Equine therapy, also known as horse therapy, is a powerful and effective form of therapy for first responders dealing with trauma and high-stress situations. 

Equine therapy providers have noted that horses exist in a perpetual hypervigilant state to survive. Similarly, first responders exercise hypervigilant states while working and due to various factors may develop nervous system irregularities. Unresolved trauma or PTSD may result in an inability of a first responder to properly regulate their nervous system and they may end up stuck in a sympathetic or “fight or flight” state. Remaining stuck in this state can lead to further mental health issues as well as significant physical issues.

Horses are incredibly perceptive animals that can mirror human emotions, providing first responders with valuable feedback on their feelings and behaviors. This feedback is immediate and observable through the animal’s responses. Interactive activities such as grooming, riding, and groundwork exercises enable first responders to work on trust building, communication skills, and emotional regulation skills.

In contrast to working with another person in therapy, working with a horse offers a non-judgmental environment where first responders can process their experiences, build confidence, and improve self-awareness. The rhythmic and calming nature of being around horses can help reduce anxiety and stress levels, promote relaxation and provide a sense of peace. If a first responder doesn’t have experience with horses, there can be an additional benefit of doing something unique that stimulates learning areas of the brain, establishing new neural pathways.

Working with horses also encourages mindfulness and staying present in the moment, which can be beneficial for individuals accustomed to high-pressure and life-threatening situations. Many of the tasks introduced during the therapy require patience, focus and attention.  Activities are supervised by a mental health professional who is present to assist with the animal and more importantly to assist with any emotions or discussion points that may come up. Don’t worry, you won’t be left alone with a 1,200-pound animal that you’ve never dealt with before. 

Many first responders who are experiencing the effects of trauma or PTSD experience relationship issues. Equine therapy provides an opportunity for the first responder to bond with these gentle creatures and can instill a sense of purpose and connection, fostering a supportive and healing environment for first responders to explore their emotions and challenges.

Equine therapy is being used successfully to treat veterans and first responders. Those who have experienced this therapy and providers report substantial improvements for participants. Additionally, social scientists have taken an interest in measuring outcomes. A pilot study of Canadian first responders gave participants 90-minute sessions of equine therapy over 8 weeks. Qualitative feedback from participants suggested significant benefits including increased sense of peace, reduced anxiety, mindfulness, and increased trust in the self and others.

Equine therapy is one of many modalities that may be of benefit to a first responder experiencing trauma or PTSD. The important thing is to find what works for you if you’re experiencing issues common to first responders. You deserve health and wellness and there is help available. 

If you or a family member are struggling please reach out for help. Responder Health (responderhealth.com) is an organization that offers resources specifically for first responders and their families. Responder Health provides confidential and full-service solutions that support first responders through stress and traumatic events, and provides them with the education, resources, and community they need to live healthy, happy lives. Our peer advocate hotline (206)459-3020 offers a confidential 24-hour crisis referral service for all public safety employees, all emergency services personnel, and their family members nationwide. Our peer advocates can assist you in locating a qualified provider that understands the issues first responders deal with and have been exposed to.