There are various treatment methods to combat addiction. These involve a rehabilitation program that provides drug rehab facilities and detoxification that can last from a few months to several years.
One of the more unique ways to treat addiction is equine therapy provided within a drug or alcohol rehab center setting. Equine therapy has been found to be effective to curb many of the psychological issues of substance abuse. At the drug rehab inpatient centers, interaction is with animals can greatly benefit self worth, confidence, anxiety, depression, and help establish healthy routines.

Here are the benefits of equine therapy for patients with substance abuse issues:

1. Physical exercise
Equine therapy not only enables patient to get outside to exercise and tone muscles, it also helps build balance, dexterity, and strength in an individual. The joint mobility is also improved including calf muscles, abdomen, arms and muscles from riding and caring for horses. Physical exercise is an effective alcohol rehabilitation tool.

2. Building self-esteem
Most rehab facilities aim to help boost patient self-esteem. In the act of caring for an animal there is discrimination or criticism, and a bond of respect and affection can quickly develop between the individual and horse.

3. Cognitive benefits
Equine therapy is often used as a tool to treat ADHD, and many patients with drug or alcohol addiction also suffer with ADHD. In caring for an animal a routine of feeding, brushing, exercise is often developed.

4. Relaxation
Working with animals if often recommended to reduce stress, and create a sense of relaxation and happiness. Through caring for a horse that patient may learn to channel stress in a positive manner.

5. Connectivity with nature
The final benefit of equine therapy is creating a bond between the patient and nature. The simple act of caring for an animal in nature, and the daily chores associated with it, may help the patient feel needed and more self-confident, which may help an individual to lead a more productive life outside of rehab.