Animal-Assisted Therapy: An Introduction
Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) is a type of therapy that involves the use of animals to improve the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of people. The concept is not entirely new as animals have been used for therapeutic purposes for centuries. However, AAT is becoming increasingly popular as more people are embracing the idea of integrating animals into the mental health field.
AAT is different from pet therapy, which is more informal and focuses on providing comfort and companionship to people in various environments, such as hospitals and nursing homes. AAT is a structured therapy program that involves a licensed therapist, an animal and the individual receiving treatment. The therapist and animal work together to facilitate the healing process by employing a variety of techniques that help the person improve their emotional, psychological, and physical health.
This article will explore the growing trend of AAT, the benefits it offers and the various applications it has in the mental health industry.
The Growing Trend of Animal-Assisted Therapy
The use of animals as therapy tools dates back to the 18th century when animals were first used to provide comfort to the sick and the elderly. In the 1960s, the formal use of animals in therapy began when a registered nurse, Elaine Smith, observed the calming effect a dog had on a child with autism. Smith subsequently launched a program that utilized dogs to help children with autism, thus pioneering the use of animal-assisted therapy.
Since then, AAT has grown in popularity, and studies have shown that animal-assisted therapy has several benefits in the mental health industry. Studies show that animal-assisted therapy can help relieve stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders.
The Benefits of Animal-Assisted Therapy
Animal-assisted therapy involves different types of animals, including dogs, cats, horses, birds, and other animals. The benefits of AAT depend on the type of animal used and the specific needs of the individual receiving the therapy.
Anxiety and Stress Reduction
Animal-assisted therapy is effective in reducing anxiety and stress levels. Studies show that petting an animal can lower the levels of cortisol, a hormone associated with stress, and increase the production of serotonin, a hormone that elevates mood. AAT can also reduce anxiety in situations that involve social interaction or performance, as the presence of an animal can help alleviate fears by providing comfort and emotional support.
Depression Treatment
AAT has been found to be effective in treating depression. Depression is a mental disorder associated with feelings of sadness, low self-esteem, and hopelessness. Studies have shown that animal-assisted therapy can help elevate mood and improve social functioning. AAT can also help increase levels of oxytocin, a hormone associated with feelings of happiness and social bonding, which is low in people with depression.
Chronic Pain Management
AAT can be an effective pain management tool for individuals suffering from chronic pain. Studies show that the presence of an animal can help reduce pain perception and provide a distraction that takes focus away from the pain. AAT can also promote relaxation responses, which are essential in pain management.
PTSD Treatment
Animal-assisted therapy has been shown to be beneficial in treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD is a mental health condition caused by exposure to traumatic events such as war, sexual assault or natural disasters. AAT plays a significant role in the PTSD recovery process by promoting social engagement, providing comfort, and re-establishing trust with others.
The Applications of Animal-Assisted Therapy
Animal-assisted therapy is used in a variety of settings and is beneficial to people of all ages, from children to the elderly. Here are some of the applications of AAT.
Children and Adolescents
Animal-assisted therapy has been found to be effective in treating various mental health disorders in children and adolescents, including anxiety, depression, and conduct disorders. AAT can also improve social skills and academic performance and help children with autism and those with learning disabilities.
Older Adults
AAT can have significant benefits for older adults in a variety of settings. Studies show that animal-assisted therapy can help alleviate loneliness, decrease the risk of depression, and promote social interactions.
Psychiatric Facilities
AAT is also used in psychiatric facilities to treat individuals with severe mental health disorders such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Animals can provide comfort, promote socialization, and improve communication and engagement with others.
Cancer Treatment Centers
AAT is used in cancer treatment centers to help relieve stress and reduce symptoms associated with cancer treatment such as nausea, fatigue, and pain. The use of AAT in cancer treatment centers has shown to have a positive impact on the quality of life for cancer patients.
The Therapeutic Animal Handler
Therapeutic animal handler or therapist is an essential component of animal-assisted therapy. A licensed therapist trained in animal handling and behavior works with the animal to achieve specific goals that have been established through an integrated plan of therapy.
Licensed therapists are responsible for identifying individuals who may benefit from AAT, developing tailored treatment plans that will address the unique needs of the individual, and overseeing the therapeutic process. They also work with the therapeutic animal handler to ensure that the animal is appropriately trained and able to provide the necessary therapeutic support.
The bottom line
The growing trend of animal-assisted therapy is revolutionizing the field of mental health. It has been found to be effective in treating various mental health disorders, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and chronic pain. AAT is used in different settings and is beneficial to people of all ages, from children to the elderly.
Although animal-assisted therapy is beneficial, it is essential to remember that AAT is not an alternative to traditional forms of therapy. It is not appropriate for people with severe allergies, a fear of animals, or a history of animal abuse. Also, AAT must be administered under the supervision of a licensed therapist and a trained animal handler to ensure that the therapy adheres to proper guidelines.
In conclusion, animal-assisted therapy presents a useful tool in the mental health field. AAT can complement traditional forms of therapy and help individuals with mental health disorders achieve their desired outcomes. AAT is a testament to the remarkable healing power of animals, and its continued growth and development promises a bright outlook for the future of mental health treatment.