Challenges
Military personnel and Combat Veterans, particularly those in Special Operations Forces (SOF), face significant emotional challenges that can impact their mental and physical health, as well as their ability to successfully navigate their roles in the service. The constant state of assessment, detachment from families, multiple rotations in combat, and the pressure to cope with the judgments of peers and leaders can lead to depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress (PTS), and other conditions.
How We Work
Equine-assisted therapy has emerged as a promising intervention in the field of mental health, offering a unique and innovative approach to addressing the emotional challenges faced by military personnel and combat Veterans. Equine therapy offers a non-traditional, non-stigmatizing approach to therapy, providing participants with an opportunity to connect with horses, develop a sense of trust and empathy, and explore their emotions in a safe and supportive environment. Upper Canyon Outreach offers a unique and innovative approach to addressing the emotional challenges faced by military personnel.
Equine-assisted therapy offers a range of benefits for both active duty military personnel and Veterans. The therapy provides an opportunity for participants to engage in physical activity, which can have a positive impact on their mental and physical health. It promotes self-awareness and helps participants develop coping skills to manage the stresses of military life and home life. Equine therapy also offers a unique perspective on leadership and communication, helping participants build critical skills that can be applied both professionally and personally.
Additionally, equine-assisted therapy offers a sense of connection and community, which can be especially important for military personnel and Veterans who may feel isolated or disconnected from their families and friends. This course helps individuals develop a sense of trust, commitment, and responsibility to care for their equine partners, helping to foster a sense of purpose and meaning in their lives.
Skill Development
Equine-assisted therapy can be particularly effective for military personnel experiencing PTS symptoms, who may struggle with emotional numbness, detachment, and difficulty forming trust with others. Equine therapy offers a safe and non-threatening environment to explore their emotions. The relationships formed with horses can help to restore a sense of connection and trust. Veterans are encouraged to explore their emotions, aiding their reintegration through the relationships formed with horses, helping to restore a sense of connection and trust.
In summary, military personnel and Veterans, especially those in SOF, face significant emotional challenges that can impact their mental and physical health, as well as their ability to successfully navigate their roles in the service. Equine-assisted therapy offers a unique and innovative approach to addressing these challenges, providing participants with an opportunity to connect with horses, develop coping skills, and build critical skills relevant to their military careers. Equine-assisted therapy should be considered a valuable tool in the treatment and management of emotional challenges faced by active-duty military personnel and Veterans.
