Bitch Grace is fighting depression: a new hope in Steyr!

Bitch Grace is fighting depression: a new hope in Steyr!

In the Pyhrn-Eisenwurzen Clinic Steyr Grace, an almost one year of Border Collie lady, ensures a little hope and normality in the often challenging everyday hospital life. The animal-assisted therapy, which is implemented here under the direction of 42-year-old Evelyn Kreiner, qualified psychiatric health and nurse and ward manager, has so far rarely been used in Austria, especially in the psychiatric area. Nevertheless, it turns out that the connection between humans and animals can have a hay effects and thus makes a valuable contribution to mental health care. Evelyn Kreiner is convinced of the positive effects of contact, reducing stress hormones and promoting the release of the binding hormone oxytocin, which has a relaxing effect and contributes to improving well -being.

In the psychiatric station of the clinic, Grace is gradually integrating into everyday life. At first she spends time in quieter areas, gradually gets used to the noises and smells of the hospital and has retreats so that it can feel safe. Their integration takes place under strict hygiene rules and security standards; Medical assignment is required and the patient's consent is also obtained in advance. The therapy units can vary, in time and duration, and often start with simple activities, such as caresses or walks in the therapy species, to reduce fear of contact and create a trusting atmosphere.

Scientific foundation and positive effects

Studies carried out in countries such as Norway and Italy show significant improvements in patients who receive animal -assisted therapy. These improvements are diverse: patients report reduced fear and aggression, increased self-esteem and better therapy compliance. In this context, Grace acts as a "icebreaker", which makes it easier for the patient to open and overcome their fears. The nursing staff has a central role in this by observing and documenting the interaction between humans and animals, which is of great importance for the teraputical success.

The use of animals in therapy not only promotes the well -being of the patients, but can also have intensive positive effects on their mental health. Like on climatek-psychotherapy.de Described, animals reduce stress and fears and have a favorable effect on the cardiovascular system and the hormonal systems. The presence of dogs, such as Grace, can reduce depressive moods, reduce aggressiveness and promote social interactions.

The project is supported by the clinic area manager Sylvia Delete cabbage and department head Martin Barth, who highlight the important role of Grace in everyday clinical life. Martin Barth describes her as a silent therapist who creates closeness, security and trust. The colleagues at the station also consistently react positively to the young bitch, who contributes to a pleasant working atmosphere through her presence and promotes interpersonal relationships.

The animal-assisted therapy in the Pyhrn-Eisenwurzen Clinic Steyr is not only an innovative method that offers help to help self-help, but also represents a step into the future of psychiatric treatment, while in Austria it is still a greater awareness and standardization to establish animal-assisted offers across the board, Evelyn Kreiner has already laid an important foundation with Grace and shows how animals Therapeutic companions can close a gap in mental care.

The potential of animals in psychotherapy is promising. Loud krone.at Not only can the emotional gang between humans and animals be healing, but also the observed improvements in fears and depression show that animal -assisted therapy can earn a valuable space in holistic health care. The path is paved and Grace dared to take the first step.