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. 

About Responder Health

Responder Health is a first responder health and wellness program dedicated to law enforcement mental health and the behavioral wellness of firefighters, EMS personnel, and their families. First responder family support is a core part of that mission — because no one carries this work alone. Through a peer support program, mental health resources, and a commitment to first responder wellness, Responder Health works to make sure no first responder faces their hardest moments alone. If you or someone you know is struggling — whether with grief, burnout, or the invisible weight of the job — reaching out to a mental health hotline is one of the most important steps you can take. Trained peer advocates are available around the clock. Call the Responder Health 24/7 Peer Advocate Hotline at 253-243-3701 — available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.