Benefits of Healing With Animal Therapy

Addiction is a serious illness that can significantly impact a person's life. It can cause physical & emotional pain, confusion, and difficulty in relationships. However, healing is possible. One method of healing that has become increasingly popular in recent years is animal therapy.

At our experiential healing center, clients can participate in equine-assisted therapy and canine therapy, which have proven to be effective in aiding addiction recovery. In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of animal therapy and how it can assist the healing process.

Increases Motivation

A lack of motivation often accompanies addiction, and in many cases, it can be one of the reasons individuals develop addictions. Participating in animal therapy can help to increase motivation when working towards recovery. Many people find that having an animal to care for and bond with helps to give them the push they need to stay motivated.

Reduces Boredom and Loneliness

One of the biggest challenges people face when recovering from addiction is dealing with boredom and loneliness. These feelings can often be a trigger for drug or alcohol relapse. Thankfully, animal therapy can help alleviate these feelings by providing a sense of companionship and a fun activity to engage in. Additionally, caring for an animal provides a sense of purpose and meaning to life.

Encourages Communication

Another fantastic benefit of animal therapy is its capacity to encourage communication. People battling addiction often struggle to communicate their feelings, emotions, and challenges effectively. However, interacting with animals allows individuals to express themselves without fear of judgment or criticism. This freedom fosters an environment of open communication, which can be instrumental in effective addiction recovery.

Helps Reduce Depression

Depression is a common co-occurring disorder with drug or alcohol addiction. Animals can help reduce feelings of depression by providing a sense of companionship. In fact, several studies have suggested that the bond between a person and an animal can mirror the bond between two humans. Many people with pets often confide in them during periods of loneliness or stress, which can be a powerful tool in recovering from addiction.

Improves Physical Health

In addition to the psychological and emotional benefits, animal therapy can positively impact an individual's physical health. For example, equine-assisted treatment involves physical activity, such as riding horses, grooming them, and taking them out for walks. This increased outdoor exercise can improve an individual's physical health and provide a break from the monotony of traditional therapy. Increasing physical activity can also help reduce stress levels within the body, making it an excellent way to manage anxiety or anger.

Animal-Assisted Therapy in Memphis

Animal therapy has proven to be an essential and effective treatment for addiction recovery. The benefits are far-reaching and offer a unique approach to treatment that traditional medicine cannot often provide. At Grace Land Recovery, we believe that experiential therapy can play a significant role in supporting individuals suffering from addiction.

We provide a range of experiential therapy programs, including animal-assisted therapy, to help clients heal and work towards a brighter future. We hope this blog helps you understand the benefits of animal therapy, and we encourage you to explore this treatment option for yourself or your loved one.