Horse therapy helps veterans handle PTSD


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SALT LAKE CITY — Bonding with a horse can benefit veterans dealing with post traumatic stress disorder physically, mentally and emotionally.

Afghanistan veteran Evan Snead checked into The United States Department of Veterans Affair after completing three tours — coming home — and going straight to work.

“I had fallen into a huge pit of depression,” Snead said. “I had no idea I had even gotten there until I was at the bottom.”

Snead has found healing in this therapy program after witnessing unimaginable things in a war-zone. Rather than undergoing therapy in an office with a coach, it’s in a barn where he can connect with other veterans and the animals.

“I think the horses are non-judgmental,” said Michelle Holling-Brooks with Unbridled Change, a horse therapy program. “They don’t really care what you look like, they don’t care what you’ve been through, they just care that you’re hurting.”

Snead and the other veterans work together by setting up an obstacle course that reflects their emotions. They piece the course together with things lying around, like tubes and tires. Then the horses have to maneuver the course with the help of the veteran.

“If the horse feels like you’re struggling a little bit, maybe their ears will rear back, maybe their breathing will change, and so we’re able to stop in the moment and process what’s going on,” Molly Hayslett with Unbridled Change said.

Every step the horse takes is one step closer to healing for these vets.There are several equine therapy centers in Utah, and they're not limited to treating veterans suffering from PTSD. They are also known to be effective in treating children with learning and developmental disabilities.

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