Withdrawn patients find connection caring for three chickens
Three hens named Nugget, Daisy and Pepper help patients who feel alone reconnect through daily care routines.
Nugget, Daisy and Pepper live in a coop inside Dhulwa Mental Health Unit in Canberra. Patients who used to stay alone now volunteer to care for the hens each day.
Patients feed the chickens, change their water, collect eggs and tend the enclosure. Occupational therapist Stephanie Lagerlow noticed withdrawn patients going outside to check on the birds.
They started conversations they would not have had in regular therapy. The project began after staff heard patients mention keeping chickens in their own backyards before admission.
Lagerlow said the chickens provide an easy way to build routine and responsibility. She has noticed more laughter and a different connection between patients and staff.
- Nugget, Daisy, Pepper
- Chicken names
- Dhulwa Mental Health Unit, Canberra
- Location
- Usually 2-3 consumers
- Daily participants
- December
- Project start
Why it mattersEveryday activities can spark connection and self-care in isolated people. These often work better than formal therapy alone.
AustraliaAustralian mental health services are discovering how pets and small animals can support recovery and engagement in secure treatment settings across the country.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 1 h ago
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