The term “depression” is sometimes used broadly. Clinically, a depression is a mental disorder, but many people also use the word to describe a temporary dip in mood. A clinical (medically diagnosed) depression is a serious illness and requires treatment by professionals. On the other hand, a winter dip can be unpleasant but is usually easier to resolve or often fades on its own. Many people can relate to a winter dip. Horses can experience it too!

Winter Dip in Horses

Horses experience a winter dip for different reasons than humans. They don’t think: “This cold, wet weather will last four more months, how will I get through it?” Cold weather is often not a problem for horses; however, endless rain can be uncomfortable. A waterproof rug increases comfort significantly, and horses often choose to stay outside even in heavy rain if they have the option, despite a shelter being available.

What horses do struggle with in winter is the transition from lots of outdoor time and pasture grazing to spending more time in the stable, primarily eating hay. This transition should be gradual. Also, make sure your horse gets enough free movement during the winter. If outdoor time is limited, try to introduce alternative ways to move, such as using a walker or adding extra walking or lunging sessions alongside regular training.

Preventing Chronic Stress

Long-term stress leads to changes in hormone balance and physical problems in horses. To prevent chronic stress, first ensure good-quality nutrition with enough roughage. Proper stable management with enough free movement (even in winter) and social contact with companions is also essential. Even if horses appear idle (not playing or grooming), proximity to other horses is crucial for fulfilling their mental and social needs. Exercise and training are vital outlets—horses are naturally moving animals, traveling up to 16 km per day in the wild to forage. Keeping them active supports both mental and physical health and helps release waste products and stress hormones.

Miscommunication Can Lead to Depression

Horses under prolonged stress may show signs of depression: withdrawal, loss of curiosity, fearful behavior, or poor response to aids. Chronic stress can result from poor nutrition, inadequate management, insufficient movement, inappropriate training, overtraining, lack of choice in daily life, or miscommunication with humans. Horses communicate subtly, and if their signals are misunderstood, they may stop communicating and withdraw—behavior that can resemble clinical depression in humans.

Help! My Horse Seems Depressed!

If your horse shows signs of chronic stress or a mental dip, there are steps you can take. Check stable management and nutrition. If your horse is bored from spending too much time alone, increase turnout, offer enrichment like scavenger hunts, walks, groundwork, or grooming sessions. Extra time outside with a friend, even in the dark or rain, can help. Provide interesting objects like balls to stimulate mental activity. Ensure sufficient roughage throughout the day, using slow feeders or hay nets. Supplements such as magnesium and clove can help reduce stress and support the nervous system. Herbs may help during stressful events like competitions or relocations.