.png)
By: Jehan Mawani - MSW, RSW, BSW, B.Ed., B.A.
With our on-the-go lifestyles, bills to pay, and the never-ending cycle of news, stress and anxiety are often unavoidable. It is quite easy to feel overwhelmed through this bustle of daily life. But amidst the chaos, we find comfort in the deep eyes and furry paws of our beloved pets. Regardless of if you prefer fur, feathers or scales, pets can have a profound impact on our mental health.
🐾 Our Bond with Animals – Do you feel a strong bond with animals? There is science behind it. Interaction with pets has been shown to lower our cortisol levels (the stress hormone), and increase serotonin (the neurotransmitter connected to improved happiness). Pets can also support the release of oxytocin (the love hormone), which also contributes to stress reduction, and an increase in happiness.
🐾 Mental Health – When I look into the eyes of my dog, I can see his soul. The presence of animals is said to have a calming effect on our minds and bodies, which can in turn help reduce anxiety and depressive symptoms. The affection and playfulness pets show can distract from negative thoughts, replacing them with moments of happiness and laughter. Caring for pets provides us with a sense of purpose, responsibility, and routine. Knowing that our pets rely on us can be a motivating factor to get out of bed on those tough days. Animal therapy is also used as a treatment for anxiety and depression. Animals such as dogs and horses, are trained to support those struggling with mental health challenges, and these approaches have shown to improve overall mood.
🐾 Emotional Support – Apart from the occasional eye roll or sigh, pets tend not to judge, and they accept us for who we are. Pets have an incredible ability to enhance our mood and can bring joy, laughter, and light to even our darkest days. They provide us with companionship, acceptance, emotional support, and unconditional love. They support us in times of loneliness, isolation, grief, and other emotional lows. Many pet owners find solace in talking to their pets and sharing their feelings and emotions without fear. This can support emotional processing more comfortably and effectively.
🐾 Physical Health – Whether it be indoors or outdoors, pets encourage us to be physically active. This provides us the opportunity to exercise and boosts both physical and emotional health outcomes. Connection to our pets through exercise supports the release of endorphins, which work to elevate our mood and alleviate pain naturally. Pet owners tend to have lower blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and reduced risk of heart disease. Studies have also shown they help to strengthen our immune system, especially for children growing up with a pet!
🐾 Socialization – Have you ever been in conversation with someone new, it’s awkward, and you need to break the ice? Talking about and showing pictures of your pet is an option! Pets help to improve our social lives by creating opportunities for new interactions such as meeting at dog parks or pet cafes, and connecting through social media groups. Pet-connections and interactions can lead to new friendships, and a strengthened sense of community.
Whether you prefer a soothing purr, a wagging tail, or cheerful chirps, animals will always remind us that we never have to be alone. If you are considering opening your home and heart to a furry friend, the benefits and love are endless. Building You welcomes pets in sessions, as long as they do not distract, and they continue to maintain confidentiality 🙂.
Comments