Eagala believes that mental health needs are at an all-time high. According to the latest study by the Mental Health America organization, there are 1 in 5 American adults who will have a diagnosable mental health condition in any given year. This number holds true for Australia as well. In Australia and the United States anxiety is prevalent, with studies showing 42.5 million Americans and 3.4 million Australians suffering from this disorder. In 2023, mental well-being was measured in 71 countries around the world and remained at its post-pandemic low with yet again no sign of movement toward pre-pandemic levels.
In Canada, one in three people will have experienced a mental illness in their lifetime. In the UK eight million people are suffering from anxiety disorder, to the point that in 2023 the UK considered mental health a national emergency. Almost half of the people in New Zealand will experience mental distress or illness in their lifetime while in South Africa, estimates show one in six adults meet criteria for mental health issues.
The impact of untreated mental health continues to be a concern as it takes shape around the globe. While many mental health needs go unmet regardless of the country, a variety of approaches are needed to aid mental health professionals in combating this need.
Our unique approach combines mental health practitioners’ expertise with the equine specialist’s knowledge of horses, and the intuitive, non-judgmental presence of the horses to create a dynamic therapeutic environment. Eagala’s role in this global fight is to set the standards and provide support and education to professionals who are working hard to change lives worldwide with equine-assisted psychotherapy and personal development.
The Eagala Model provides an innovative solution that offers a unique space for an on-the-ground equine experience. Eagala’s Code of Ethics serves as our global standard to conduct business, and guide practice for all members, providing for the wellbeing and safety of your clients and horses. Eagala’s vision is to work to ensure that every person around the world has access to Eagala model services.