Stress: we all know it, but some manage it better than others. Most of us are familiar with the feeling of being overwhelmed at times, but constant stress can be detrimental to your health. Long-term stress can cause insomnia, high blood pressure, abnormal heartbeat, anxiety, depression and more, which means it’s not to be taken lightly. While stress is an inevitable part of life it’s important to do your part in managing it and bringing some happiness and relief into your days – starting with your pet! In honor of April being Stress Awareness Month, we’re sharing our favorite mental health benefits of pet ownership.
- Schizophrenia, Depression, Bipolar, PTSD: One study found that pets offer what’s called ontological security, which is a feeling of stability, continuity, and meaning in one’s life – a crucial part of grounding people and reminding them that they’re important.
- Reduces Social Anxiety in Children: Another study found that more dogless children tested positive on their anxiety screening (21%) than those who did own dogs (12%). According to the study, children listed dogs as better confidants and providers of comfort and self-esteem than adults.
- Blood Pressure, Heart Rate, Muscle Tension: All things that increase with stress and decrease upon petting and bonding with an animal.
- Non-judgmental Companionship: Both children and adults with social anxiety or other mental health disorders can benefit from the nonjudgmental company of an animal, allowing them to be themselves even on their worst days and still feel unconditionally loved.
Not only that, but dogs can prompt more social interaction and exercise, which can be crucial to one’s self-care routine; and, of course, no one can help but smile at those sweet furry faces! So the next time you feel overwhelmed, anxious, or sad, sit yourself down and pet an animal for a while, you may be shocked at how much more centered and calm you feel afterward! If your pet has helped you decompress in the past, we’d love to hear more on Facebook.
