Animal-Assisted Therapy


 

Animal-assisted therapy is not intended to be a stand-alone treatment. When paired with other treatments for drug use disorders, the therapeutic method helps drive individuals to continue in treatment. Animals may also help therapists and clients resolve mental health issues in ways that other methods of treatment cannot.

Dogs, horses, and even dolphins have a significant influence on many people. When a person begins treatment for a drug or alcohol addiction, they will most likely go through several forms of therapy, such as group or behavioral therapy, and maybe a pharmaceutical regimen to help them recover. Holistic therapies such as acupuncture, yoga, or art therapy may also be provided to certain patients. Others may be able to participate in animal-assisted therapy with dogs, horses, and even dolphins.

The Benefits

Animal-assisted therapy for drug use disorders has received less attention than AAT for other mental health issues. According to published research involving patients suffering from addiction, the therapy appears to increase the “therapeutic alliance,” a phrase referring to the bond between a patient and their therapist.

Many people with drug abuse issues drop out of therapy too soon. A solid therapeutic connection increases the likelihood that patients will continue treatment and benefit from it. The presence of an animal during treatment is thought to improve the therapeutic relationship and lessen anxiety.

Animal-assisted therapy is used to treat individuals with mental disorders, inmates, people with illnesses such as cerebral palsy and Alzheimer’s disease, and those suffering from drug misuse disorders. Interacting with animals decreases emotions of aggressiveness, sadness, and anxiety while also making people happier and calmer. Visiting with a dog has been demonstrated in studies to alleviate discomfort and pain-related symptoms, and friendly dogs are frequently employed in hospitals to calm worried patients. Many addiction treatment clinics now provide patients with animal-assisted therapy, which includes a wide range of animals such as cats, birds, rabbits, and horses.

If your loved one is abusing dangerous drugs, consulting with a family therapist can help the family system heal. Contact a drug and addiction treatment facilities without risk and discuss your recovery alternatives

Continue reading here: The Benefits of Animal-Assisted Therapy

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

What Are The Five Stages of Addiction Recovery? Let’s Find Out

Understanding the Key Differences: Inpatient vs Outpatient Treatment

What is a faith-based addiction recovery program in rehab?