Having an emotional support animal by your side can be a powerful ally in improving mental health and well-being. In this blog, we are focusing on the companionship, comfort, security and distraction that dog ownership provides for those looking to reduce stress or manage depression. What's more - caring for a furry friend has been scientifically linked with additional health benefits such as lower blood pressure, cholesterol and much more.
Disclaimer: Mental Health cannot be alleviated by owning a pet alone. Professional support is crucial and you must ALWAYS seek the treatment of medical professionals / psychotherapists and prescription medication. You must also discuss any intentions to have a pet with your medical professional to assess if your spectrum of mental health challenges align with owning a pet.
However, If you are looking for an add-on to the professional treatments you are receiving and have considered owning a pet, Read on…..
So you are looking to add to the treatments you are currently receiving? Tablets and therapy sessions can’t give you the warm hugs, unconditional love and friendship dogs give.
Dogs are remarkably evolved to understand our tone of voice, body language and gestures. Your dog won’t ask how you are feeling - it already knows.
Dogs are known to provide distraction from negative thoughts or worries, which may be beneficial for those who suffer from mental health issues. Having a furry friend around can also encourage you to go out into the community and interact with others; improving socialization skills.
Caring for a dog is a great way to promote an increased sense of purpose. That feeling of being needed and being loved unconditionally may well be the reason you make it out of bed. A dog’s unconditional love can aid in reducing stress, anxiety, depression and loneliness by providing you with an outlet for giving back that love without the fear of rejection or abandonment.
Research shows that Dogs [pets] can help increase our ‘Feel good hormones’ - Dopamine, Serotonin, Oxytocin. Research has found that when dogs and people look at each other or interact with each other, they both get a surge in oxytocin!.
Other Health Benefits from Research [ if you have pets]!
- You are less likely to suffer from depression and loneliness than non-pet owners.
- You deal with stressful situations and have lower blood pressure than those without pets.
- Pet owners have lower triglyceride and cholesterol levels (indicators of heart disease) than those without pets.
- IF you had a heart attack, you are more likely to survive longer than those without pets
- Over 65s, will make up to 30% fewer visits to their doctors than people without pets.
So, You don't have to go through the challenge of mental health alone. Know that the bond you will have with your dog will have positive long term effects on both your physical AND psychological well being. With the right dog by your side and professional treatment, you will find the courage to keep fighting and reclaim your life.
