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The impact of PTSD on veterans cannot be overstated, and unfortunately, the statistics surrounding veteran suicide rates are staggering. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, an average of 17 veterans die by suicide every day. However, there is hope. Studies have shown that therapy programs, including equine therapy, can have a significant impact in lowering suicide rates in veterans.
Let’s take a closer look at the statistics from 2019 to 2023:
- In 2019, the veteran suicide rate was 27.5 deaths per 100,000 veterans.
- In 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the veteran suicide rate increased to 32.9 deaths per 100,000 veterans.
- As of 2021, the suicide rate among veterans is 30.8 deaths per 100,000 veterans.
- From 2019 to 2023, approximately 6,000 veterans will have died by suicide each year.
While these statistics are alarming, there is hope. Studies have shown that equine therapy can have a significant impact on veterans’ mental health and well-being. In fact, a study conducted by the University of Missouri found that equine therapy led to significant reductions in depression, PTSD symptoms, and suicidal thoughts among veterans.
Another study published in the Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development found that equine therapy was associated with significant improvements in veterans’ quality of life, social functioning, and overall mental health.
So, how exactly does equine therapy help veterans? By working with horses, veterans can experience decreased anxiety and stress, improved emotional regulation, enhanced sense of self-efficacy, and strengthened social connections. These benefits can have a profound impact on veterans’ mental health and well-being and can help reduce the risk of suicide.
The statistics surrounding veteran suicide rates are alarming, but there is hope. Therapy programs, including equine therapy, can have a significant impact on veterans’ mental health and well-being and can help reduce the risk of suicide. If you or someone you know is a veteran struggling with PTSD or other mental health challenges, please share with them our program here at EFF.