Healing with animals: conquering phobias
Phobias are intense, irrational, and uncontrolled fears of a specific object, situation, or animal that can cause panic, shaking, sweating, and nausea when confronted with them. While it is common for people to have fears and phobias, it becomes a problem when it interferes with daily life. In such cases, therapeutic treatments, such as exposure therapy or cognitive-behavioral therapy, are sought. However, healing with animals presents an alternative way to deal with phobias.
Animals have been in use for therapeutic purposes since ancient times. Studies have shown that interactions with animals can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression levels. Healing with animals goes beyond having a pet. It involves the use of animals, such as horses, dogs, cats, and even snakes to help individuals conquer their fears and phobias.
The Science of Healing with Animals
The use of animals for therapeutic purposes has gained widespread recognition in recent times. It has been attributed to the release of oxytocin, a hormone associated with social bonding and stress reduction. Interacting with animals can cause a reduction in cortisol, a hormone associated with stress. A study conducted by the University of Missouri-Columbia found that cortisol levels in children decreased after they spent time with therapy dogs. Similarly, a study published in the International Journal of Workplace Health Management found that interactions with dogs in the workplace reduced cortisol levels in employees.
Healing with Animals for Phobias
Healing with animals can be used to treat a wide range of phobias. Here are some of the most common phobias that can be treated with animals:
- Arachnophobia (fear of spiders)
- Agoraphobia (fear of open spaces)
- Ophidiophobia (fear of snakes)
- Social Phobia (fear of social situations)
Arachnophobia (fear of spiders)
Therapy with tarantulas involves gradually introducing the person to the spider, starting with pictures, moving on to videos, and eventually meeting the animal in person. The goal is to help the person confront their fear and develop a healthy relationship with the animal.
Agoraphobia (fear of open spaces)
Equine therapy involves working with horses in a controlled environment, such as a stable or a paddock. The therapy involves building a relationship with the animal through grooming, feeding, and other activities. This therapy helps the person to develop coping skills and self-confidence, essential skills for overcoming agoraphobia.
Ophidiophobia (fear of snakes)
Therapy with snakes involves gradually introducing the person to the animal, starting with pictures or videos, moving on to touching and holding the snake, and eventually taking care of the snake.
Social Phobia (fear of social situations)
Therapy with dogs involves building a relationship with the animal through obedience training, walking, and other activities. This therapy helps the person to develop coping skills and self-confidence, essential skills for overcoming social phobia.
Conclusion
Healing with animals is an effective way of treating phobias. Animals have a soothing and calming effect on humans. The therapy involves gradually introducing the person to the animal in a controlled environment, starting with pictures, videos, and eventually meeting the animal in person. Healing with animals is an excellent alternative to traditional therapeutic treatments such as exposure therapy. So, if you have a phobia, consider healing with animals for lasting transformation and overcoming your fears.