Melanie Struggles with Relationships

"I work at a mental health facility and I was assaulted by a client. Now, years later, every time someone touches me I resist even the slightest hint at physical or emotional intimacy. I struggle with maintaining relationships with my friends, and more so, with people who seem interested in dating me. I am lonely and do not want to spend the rest of my life alone.

One of my friends suggested that Equine-assisted Therapy might help. Despite the horse’s intimidating size, I felt safe and made more of a connection with each visit. Horses are empathic creatures who mirror what we are feeling. If you are excited, they are excited. If you are confident, so are they. This unique connection provides a powerful opportunity to learn and practice symptom management in a safe and supportive environment. Being with the horse helped me to regulate my emotions, manage my symptoms and improve my communication skills. -- Has anyone experienced similar symptoms and what has worked for you?"

Melanie’s journey reflects the transformative power of therapies like those we provide. Your support can help individuals like her find hope, healing, and connection through innovative programs such as Equine-assisted Therapy.

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Supporting those you work with for their mental health

How can I support them?

a.       Remind your co-worker that talking about mental health can be helpful

b.       Try to listen without trying to “fix” something

c.       Try to empathize with how your co-worker feels, without judging, even when their feelings are hard to understand

d.       Ask how you can help

e.       Remind your co-worker that you are there for them

f.        Learn more about mental health and the resources available in your organization, and help your co-worker to also be aware of the available resources

g.       Remind co-workers that they can seek help with their mental health

h.       Reach out to co-workers to include them in activities

i.         Remember to take care of yourself

Supporting those you work with for their mental health

1.       The following signs may be cause for concern when they occur regularly:

a.       Withdrawal from the group

b.       Persistent low mood or frequent pessimistic remarks

c.       Numerous or recurring physical complaints (e.g., headaches, stomach issues, fatigue)

d.       Trouble concentrating or thinking clearly

e.       Increased irritability

f.        Reports of sleep issues (e.g., insomnia, oversleeping, fatigue)

g.       Changes in personal hygiene, especially neglect

h.       Suicidal thoughts, comments, or behaviors

i.         Frequent worrying

j.         Difficulty relaxing

k.       Heightened sensitivity to stimuli (e.g., light, smells, sounds)

l.         Loss of interest in work, colleagues, or enjoyable activities outside of work

m.     Suspicion or paranoia

n.       Unusual or abnormal behavior

o.       Reports of significant appetite changes (increase or decrease)

p.       Sudden or drastic mood swings

q.       Substance abuse