Free Rein serves military veterans who have been referred by the Orange County Superior Court Veterans Court. Most of these young men and women struggle with symptoms of PTSD such as depression, anxiety and thoughts of suicide. After leaving the military it is not easy for many soldiers to reintegrate into society and feel “normal.”
As prey animals, horses exhibit the same symptoms as a person suffering with PTSD. They have a high startle response and are hyper-vigilant. Mirroring these behaviors, the horses help the veterans understand their own behaviors, how their behavior impacts the way they see the world and the people around them, and gives them opportunities to make life changes.
Type: Get Involved
