May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to revisit the ways we can support ourselves and others. We're lucky to spend time with horses, and often know when they seem to be doing something for our mental health, but the science and psychology behind this connection are now catching up.
How being around horses improves human mental health
Horses offer a form of connection that is deeply grounding. They live in the moment, they read body language, and respond honestly, all of which can be incredibly therapeutic for people struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or stress. Spending time with horses can:
- Reduce cortisol (stress hormone) levels
- Improve mood and emotional regulation
- Build confidence, empathy, and communication skills
- Offer a calming, non-judgmental presence for people in distress
Even casual time spent grooming, leading, or simply being in a horse’s presence can have positive psychological effects, similar to mindfulness practices.
The emotional and mental demands of horse ownership
We are all passionate horse owners, but this also brings real pressure. From the cost of ownership to the emotional toll of managing a horse’s health, behaviour, and performance, the mental load can be significant. Owners often report:
- Decision fatigue (feed, farrier, vet, supplements… the list goes on)
- Guilt over not doing “enough”
- Stress around competition, lameness, or behavioural issues
- Burnout from constant responsibility
It’s important to acknowledge the emotional labour of horse care, and to remind ourselves that taking care of our own mental health helps us be better carers, partners, and riders for our horses.
Your horse’s mental wellbeing, and the very real link between gut health and behaviour
Research and equine nutrition science increasingly point to the connection between gut health and mental wellbeing, which applies to horses just as much as it does to humans. An imbalanced and poor gut microbiome in horses can lead to:
- Increased stress and anxiety, leading to poor behaviours
- Poor digestion and limited nutrient absorption
- Decreased resilience to environmental stressors
- Aggression, spookiness, or lethargy
Supporting a horse’s gut health through:
- A fibre-first diet, followed by a balanced diet
- Digestive aids such as probiotics
- Reducing unnecessary sugars and starches
- Stress minimisation (stable routine, plenty of turnout, and positive socialisation
All of the above can lead to noticeable improvements in temperament, behaviour, and the quality of your time together.
Supporting your horse’s mental health can directly improve your own
A relaxed, well-fed, comfortable horse is simply more pleasant to be around. They’re safer, more predictable, and more connected to you. When our horses are healthy and content:
- We experience less anxiety and stress
- Our confidence and enjoyment rise
- We’re less likely to feel frustrated or overwhelmed
- We deepen our bond, building mutual trust and calm
Small Shifts, Big Results
Whether you’re a competitor a happy hacker, paying attention to both your mental health and your horse’s wellbeing is paramount. Consider making small changes that serve both of you:
- Know that it's OK to prioritise rest and quality time over productivity
- Review your horse’s feed and consider gut-friendly adjustments
- Build in slow, connection-based routines like grooming or groundwork
Talk to others
Communities like Riders Minds are a lifeline for mental health support in the equestrian world. We are all in it together. Let Mental Health Awareness Month be your reminder to check in with yourself and your horse.
We are always here to help, call us, email or chat on social.
