Summary of Animal-assisted Therapy at a Psychiatric Center
This article details the successful implementation and expansion of animal-assisted therapy (AAT) at a psychiatric center directed by Dr. Helena Díaz moreno. Here’s a breakdown of the key points:
* Proven Success: AAT has been successfully used with children with ASD, individuals with psychic disabilities, and older adults with depressive symptoms.
* Focus on Functionality: The center emphasizes using AAT in addition to conventional treatments to improve patient functionality, going beyond simply addressing symptoms.
* Notable Impact on Elderly Patients: AAT has shown particularly strong results with older patients experiencing depression, allowing for reduced medication dosages and even complete remission in nearly 40% of the 175 patients in the program. Benefits extend to motor activity, social interaction, cognitive function, and combating loneliness.
* expansion to Inpatient Unit: Due to positive outcomes, AAT has been integrated into the psychiatric hospitalization unit, serving patients with a variety of diagnoses (personality disorders, eating disorders, psychotic disorders, affective disorders).
* Increased Patient Engagement: Patients who typically avoid group activities are often drawn to AAT sessions, bringing “life” into the unit.
* Holistic Benefits: Sessions involve group interaction, music therapy, dance therapy, and encourage emotional expression, attachment, and laughter. The animals provide a non-judgmental space for patients to share their stories.
* Improved Communication: Patients who struggle with individual therapy often find it easier to open up in a group setting, facilitated by the presence of the animals.
* Reduced Tension & Improved Atmosphere: AAT sessions demonstrably reduce emotional tension within the unit, creating a calmer and more conducive environment for therapy that extends beyond the session itself.
* Collaboration: The program is run in collaboration with the Yaracán Association.
In essence, the article highlights AAT as a valuable and increasingly integrated component of the center’s thorough mental healthcare approach, leading to improved patient outcomes and a more positive therapeutic environment.
