Acceptability of an adjunct equine-assisted activities and therapies program for veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder and/or traumatic brain injury.

The research article investigates the impact and acceptance of equine-assisted activities and therapies (EAATs) in treating veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or traumatic brain injury (TBI) as part of an intensive outpatient program.

Methodology

• The study involved administeration of EAATs to veterans with PTSD and/or TBI. The treatment process also allowed for a family member or support person to accompany the veterans, thereby encouraging a supportive environment.
• A total of 106 participants, which included 62 veterans and 44 family members, were taken from an urban environment and made to participate in a two-day EAAT program in rural New Hampshire.
• At the end of the two-week intensive clinical program, satisfaction surveys were conducted, the results of which were then studied using thematic analysis to draw insights and observations.

Results

• The survey responses suggested that horses played a significant role in facilitating emotional rehabilitation. This was found to be one of the positive aspects of the EAAT program,
• Participants found the intensive immersion in equine-assisted activities to be effective.
• Another positive outcome was the program’s ability to promote interpersonal relationships.
• The need for staff to be educated about PTSD was also indicated in the survey responses.
• The vets and their family members provided largely positive feedback about the program, with high scores on the satisfaction survey. On a 10-point visual analog scale, veterans scored an average of 9.76, while family members scored an average of 9.91, indicating a favourable overall experience.

Conclusions

• The study data provides preliminary evidence that EAAT is an acceptable supplemental treatment for veterans with PTSD and/or TBI undergoing an intensive outpatient program
• However, more rigorous and long-term studies would likely be required to further validate these findings and to understand the lasting impacts of EAATs on PTSD/TBI treatment.