Shyria Dracnoir
02-06-2013, 12:59 AM
News Link (http://www.standard.co.uk/news/nhs-recruits-snakes-to-treat-depression-6764438.html)
http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc230/Shyria_Dracnoir/tumblr_inline_mhrwo8cjiJ1qz4rgp_zps0e55e261.jpg
A London clinic is the first to use reptiles to help patients overcome low self-worth and "communication issues".
The Huntercombe hospital in Roehampton has enlisted Angel, a seven-year-old 5ft corn snake, in group sessions where patients can touch, feed and care for her.
The majority of its 38 patients are referred by the NHS for treatment for addictions and eating disorders.
Doctors say those involved in animal-assisted therapy (AAT) have already shown an improvement in concentration and mood.
Known for their placid characters, corn snakes are not venomous and are the most popular type of pet snake.
They are ideal in therapeutic settings because they enjoy being touched and learn to recognise their handler.
And the snakes, which originate from the middle and southern states of the US, are easy to care for as they are extremely hardy.
Huntercombe also uses a dog and two hamsters to help relax patients. Scientific studies have demonstrated that animal-assisted therapy can benefit people suffering a range of conditions.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania reported that stroking a cat or dog can lower blood pressure in those with hypertension.
It has also been shown that people who watch fish in an aquarium before a medical procedure had less anxiety.
Lookit dat face.
http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc230/Shyria_Dracnoir/tumblr_inline_mhrwo8cjiJ1qz4rgp_zps0e55e261.jpg
A London clinic is the first to use reptiles to help patients overcome low self-worth and "communication issues".
The Huntercombe hospital in Roehampton has enlisted Angel, a seven-year-old 5ft corn snake, in group sessions where patients can touch, feed and care for her.
The majority of its 38 patients are referred by the NHS for treatment for addictions and eating disorders.
Doctors say those involved in animal-assisted therapy (AAT) have already shown an improvement in concentration and mood.
Known for their placid characters, corn snakes are not venomous and are the most popular type of pet snake.
They are ideal in therapeutic settings because they enjoy being touched and learn to recognise their handler.
And the snakes, which originate from the middle and southern states of the US, are easy to care for as they are extremely hardy.
Huntercombe also uses a dog and two hamsters to help relax patients. Scientific studies have demonstrated that animal-assisted therapy can benefit people suffering a range of conditions.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania reported that stroking a cat or dog can lower blood pressure in those with hypertension.
It has also been shown that people who watch fish in an aquarium before a medical procedure had less anxiety.
Lookit dat face.