IRREFUTABLE BENEFITS OF A RURAL SETTING

It is a well known fact that the rural environment and its related activities are substantial contributors to the rehabilitation of persons suffering from mental health issues, particularly PTSD, anxiety and depression.

• The following is the position of the incredibly successful and renowned Boulder Crest Retreat in Virginia USA, the shining light in combat-related stress recovery programs and facilities in the USA.
  “We believe that a rural setting is a critical component of the healing process for our veterans.”
• Dr Jane Shakespeare-Finch, Associate Professor, School of Psychology and Counselling, Queensland University of Technology, says:
  “I believe the natural environment is underestimated in its capacity to promote mental health. There is a growing body of research that supports the proposal that spending time in the natural environment is related to improvements in mental health and reductions in mental ill-health.”
• As an accredited EAGALA Certified Professional, and Equine Connection EAL Certified Facilitator, Tracey Hopkin states that:
  “Equine Assisted therapy is a powerful and effective therapeutic approach that has an incredible impact on individuals, youth, families, and groups. Equine Assisted Therapy addresses a variety of mental health and human development needs including behavioural issues, attention deficit disorder, PTSD, substance abuse, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, relationship problems and communication needs.”