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Chickens Offer Unexpected Healing for Veterans with PTSD

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. r-unexpected-healing-for-veterans-with-ptsd.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Sunday, April 5th 2026 at 18:28 GMT by Military Times
      Locale: UNITED STATES

April 5th, 2026 - For many veterans returning from service, the battle doesn't end when they come home. The invisible wounds of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression can be debilitating, leaving individuals feeling lost, disconnected, and struggling to reintegrate into civilian life. But a growing number of individuals, including Marine veteran Daniel Uhing, are finding unexpected solace - and healing - in the simple act of caring for chickens.

Uhing's story, recently shared publicly, has sparked interest in a unique form of animal-assisted therapy. After years grappling with the effects of his service, he discovered that the daily routines and gentle presence of a small flock of hens provided a crucial anchor in his life. "For a long time, I felt lost and disconnected," Uhing explained. "The chickens... they gave me a sense of purpose. A reason to get out of bed in the morning."

This isn't simply about a pleasant hobby. It's about re-establishing a connection - to a routine, to a responsibility, and crucially, to something outside of oneself. The demands of chicken care - providing food and water, maintaining a clean coop, collecting eggs - offer a structured day, a welcome contrast to the often chaotic internal world of someone struggling with mental health. The repetitive, grounding nature of these tasks can be profoundly therapeutic, allowing individuals to focus on the present moment and quiet the intrusive thoughts and anxieties that often plague those with PTSD.

The benefits extend beyond mere distraction. Observing the chickens' natural behaviors - their pecking order, their dust baths, their simple contentment - fosters a sense of calm and connection with nature. Witnessing the life cycle of these birds, from tiny chicks to egg-laying hens, offers a powerful reminder of growth, resilience, and the beauty of the natural world. This connection can be especially important for veterans who have experienced trauma and loss, providing a sense of hope and renewal.

Dr. Lori DeVos, a licensed clinical social worker specializing in animal-assisted therapy, isn't surprised by Uhing's experience. "The bond we form with animals is powerful," she states. "They offer unconditional acceptance and non-judgmental support, which can be incredibly healing. And while dogs and horses often receive the most attention in animal-assisted therapy, the benefits extend to a surprisingly wide range of species. Poultry, with their relatively low maintenance needs and gentle natures, can be particularly well-suited for individuals who may not be able to provide the same level of care required by larger animals."

Animal-assisted therapy, increasingly recognized by mental health professionals, leverages the human-animal bond to improve psychological and physiological well-being. Studies have shown that interacting with animals can reduce stress hormones like cortisol, lower blood pressure, and release endorphins - natural mood boosters. The presence of an animal can also stimulate the release of oxytocin, often referred to as the "bonding hormone," further fostering feelings of connection and trust.

Uhing now hopes to encourage others to explore this therapeutic avenue. He envisions a future where "chicken therapy" becomes a recognized and accessible resource for veterans and individuals struggling with mental health challenges. "It doesn't matter if you're a veteran, a teacher, a student, or just someone feeling overwhelmed," he emphasizes. "Connecting with nature, with animals, can be a lifeline."

However, experts caution that animal interaction should not be seen as a replacement for traditional mental health treatment, but rather as a complementary therapy. A qualified mental health professional should always be consulted to address underlying issues and develop a comprehensive treatment plan. Furthermore, responsible animal ownership is crucial; ensuring the animals' welfare is paramount.

As awareness grows about the potential benefits of animal-assisted therapy, and specifically the surprisingly powerful role chickens can play, we may see a shift in how we approach mental health care - one that embraces the healing power of the natural world and the unconditional companionship of animals.

Resources for Veterans and Individuals Seeking Mental Health Support:

• The Department of Veterans Affairs: [ https://www.va.gov/ ]
• The Wounded Warrior Project: [ https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/ ]
• Give an Hour: [ https://www.giveanhour.org/ ]