Wildlife experiences can ease PTSD symptoms

Direct interactions with wildlife species can help war veterans deal with symptoms related to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). For a study published recently in Human-Animal Interactions, researchers immersed 19 war veterans with PTSD symptoms in a variety of wildlife and nature-related activities in Massachusetts for over four months. The veterans took forest walks, helped care for wildlife in a rehabilitation center, watched wildlife in a sanctuary, and did birdwatching. The participants of these activities reported improved psychological symptoms, such as a reduction in anxiety, especially in situations where they were more immersed in wildlife settings. “While many studies involving interactions between humans and other species aimed at improving psychological or physical health have involved domestic animals, few have focused on wildlife,” study author Donna Perry from the University of Massachusetts’ Chan Medical School said, in a press release. “We found that the response of veterans with PTSD to wildlife immersion suggests improved psychological symptoms as well as connection to nature/wildlife and increased understanding and concern for animal welfare and conservation-related issues.”

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