Caring for Horses

• Many people have found that caring for horses can help lift depression. The act of petting a horse or talking to one can take your mind off of the pain of depression. Riding a horse is a physical activity and a form of exercise, and exercise is known to release endorphins in the brain, giving you a good feeling. Having the responsibility of caring for a horse in all his daily needs can give you a sense of purpose and fulfillment that depression has taken from you.
  
  

How Horses Help

• Horses are intuitive, sensitive animals with distinctive personalities. When dealing with a horse, you may find yourself learning more about the way you think of your life and dealings with people. Horses won't judge you and are known for mirroring a human's mood. If you are feeling depressed, a horse may reflect this and you could want to relieve the horse from his mood by changing yours.
  
  Also, when handling a horse, you may find that by being able to work with a creature so large will give you confidence. You may realize that if you can tackle the challenge of communing with an animal of such power, you can take on other difficult things in your life.
  
  

Equine Therapy

• You may have your own horses, know someone who has horses or look for equine therapy. It's best to take whatever approach you think would work for you. If you would like to enjoy the physical aspects of caring for a horse, then riding, grooming and exercising horses may be right for you. If you want companionship and a sense of not being alone, then perhaps you should walk a horse and pet him whenever you can.
  
  Equine therapy is an alternative therapy where equine therapists introduce people with depression or other mental health problems to caring for horses as a way to cope and feel better. Sometimes this is done with a group of people and horses. Usually you will take part in horse activities, then talk about your experiences and what you have learned with a therapist. The insights you gain can be used in day-to-day life as you start to feel better. Be sure that your equine therapist is certified and knows all about how to help you through your hard times.
  
  Through dealing with horses, taking care of them and spending time with them, you can achieve a sense of accomplishment and pleasure that depression has taken from you.