Ye olde veterans be findin' much aid from loyal service dogs, says the first study funded by the noble NIH. Arrr!
2024-06-19
Arr mateys! The NIH-funded trial be sayin' that service dogs be helpin' our brave military veterans with their PTSD! Aye, the lead scallywag and a Marine lad be chattin' about it. 'Tis a fine discovery, me hearties! Aye aye!
This story discusses suicide. If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, please contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255).The impact of service dogs on the mental health of U.S. military veterans is widely recognized. The first clinical trial funded by the National Institutes of Health looked into how pairing service dogs with PTSD-diagnosed veterans improves symptoms. As June marks PTSD Awareness Month, the University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine partnered with K9s For Warriors to study over 156 military veterans. The study found that veterans with service dogs had a 66% lower chance of a PTSD diagnosis compared to those without dogs. These respondents also experienced lower levels of anxiety and depression. K9s for Warriors chief program officer Kevin Steele emphasized the life-saving and life-transforming effects of service dogs for veterans. Lead study author Dr. Maggie O’Haire highlighted the need for evidence-based support for this mode of therapy. Marine Corps veteran Bill Lins, who suffered from PTSD and other mental health issues, shared his story of how a service dog transformed his life, providing comfort and companionship during difficult times.Having a service dog has helped Lins stay present and focus on the positive aspects of life. He emphasized the non-judgmental and comforting presence of his service dog, Link, in times of distress. Lins recommended service dogs as a source of comfort for veterans facing mental health challenges, praising the strong bond and support they provide. The study underscores the significant benefits of service dogs in improving the emotional and social well-being of veterans with PTSD, highlighting the importance of evidence-based care and support for individuals struggling with mental health issues. Service dogs offer a unique form of companionship and support, helping veterans navigate the challenges of post-military life with comfort and understanding.