Dolphins
Dolphins and Depression
That dolphins are highly intelligent mammals has been well-known for decades. Through scientific research, we have become familiar with how humanity and dolphins share similar traits, encouraging our harmonious coexistence with these graceful, undersea dwellers. Less well-known, however, is the healing power dolphins have towards humans. They are especially effective in treating eating disorders, hyperactivity, and as a recent study more fully revealed, depression.
Limbic Brain System
A limbic brain system—one that mammals share—plays a role in regulating emotional responses. Emotional interaction is a biological need for mammals; touch and connection with others is necessary for mammals to develop in a socially healthy manner. Because of this brain system, humans can form caring relationships with animals.
It may be interesting to discover that this emotional connection has already been observed dolphin-to-dolphin interaction. Two or three female dolphins will assist as one of their members gives birth. Physical and vocal communication has been identified between a mother dolphin (called a cow) and her calf. Dolphins also interact and communicate by playing games, much like humans do.
Humans who suffer from depression may feel isolated from their other humans, partly because they may have issues with the people around them. Dolphins, which are able to form emotional attachments but are distinctly non-human, can help a depressed person to feel less alone. Other animal-assisted therapy may work in similar ways.
Dolphin Communication
Humans are known to respond positively to music, which might explain why the sounds of dolphin communication can help alleviate symptoms of depression. Recordings of dolphins’ sonic sounds are available for those people who are unable to actually swim with dolphins. These recordings help simulate the healthy effects of interacting with our underwater counterparts.
Dolphins, like humans, exhibit an ability to recognize rhythms and sequences of sounds. Humans have long used music to express emotion, tell stories, and release tension. While dolphins who are taught human-composed music might not necessarily respond in the same way humans do, their understanding of how sounds can be arranged to convey messages is another way in which humans and dolphins are alike. This brings us nearer to forming closer relationships with dolphins. The belief that dolphins have a deeper understanding about the world, and the way in which they have become symbols of inner peace, may lead to the sounds of their communication being used as a device for healing.
Dolphin Energy
Some researchers believe their intense electromagnetic field (or biofield) contributes to dolphins’ healing powers. Their sonar emissions resonate in the skeleton of nearby human swimmers. These emissions, heard as clicks and whistles, may have an effect on humans’ own electromagnetic forces—by synchronizing it in both brain hemispheres. This may signal the release of certain neurotransmitters, like dopamine, and can affect the endocrine system. Human brain waves that are measured after dolphin interaction show evidence of intensely peaceful states.
Dolphins Get Depression, Too
Dolphins suffer depression, and exhibit it in similar ways to humans. When put into confining, chemically-treated saltwater tanks, dolphins express strange behavior, are poor in health, and die earlier than dolphins that swim free.
More and more studies are being conducted to develop a more meaningful understanding about the human/dolphin dynamic. While dolphin assisted therapy might not be a viable solution for most people with depression, scientists may soon discover other ways to treat depression through their observations of dolphins’ healing powers.
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