 
Horses for ‘Soldiers Heart’ Two-Day Retreat
|
“Soldiers Heart” and “Shell Shock” are past names for PTSD. The term “Soldiers Heart” was first identified by a Cardiologist, Jacob Mendez Da Costa, during the Civil War. Also known as Da Costa’s Syndrome, “Soldiers Heart” is one of history’s first explanations for a physiological and psychological change experienced by soldiers. [Source, Dr Mathew Friedman. Director VA Centre for post traumatic Stress Disorder]
Participant Feedback: Soldiers Heart Retreat
October 22 & 23 2011
The benefit I got was the mindfulness (focus) one gets when in a setting like this and the acceptance of all the animals, from chickens to horses.
Owen Parkhouse, CD, MA OSISS Peer Support Coordinator – Prince Edward Island
It was a wonderful experience. I developed tools for stress relief and coping mechanisms.
Charlene
I enjoyed the power of working with the animals and the sense of calm you get as a result.
Dave
|
| | |
Benefits
As with physical injury the diversity of individual and situational circumstance requires a variety of therapeutic options. Animal Assisted Therapy has been effective among a diverse civilian demographic and current studies anticipate similar rates of success among military and exmilitary personnel.
Of particular note; Veterans report significant physical, social, cognitive and emotional benefits linked to Equine Assisted Therapy.
|
Canadian Statistics
Canadian Statistics Statistics from Lt Col Jim Kile (regional surgeon for 4 Health Services Group Toronto) states, "About 6% of Canadian soldiers returning from Afghanistan is diagnosed with PTSD."
|
Horses for Soldiers Heart
