Everyone is talking about how pets are good for not only your physical health but also your mental health.  Those of us with animals already know how good it feels to interact with our pets.  Pets, especially dogs are becoming a very important means in the treatment of a variety of medical conditions and disorders, including mental health disorders.  I wanted to write a piece about the benefits of pets for mental health disorders because I have seen the improvement they make with some of my own clients.  They say that their pets are the most positive part of their lives and the reason they get up each day, I have witnessed the positive impact these gorgeous creatures have made.

Unlike humans, pets offer an unconditional amount of love and are always happy to see you.  You can tell them your deepest darkest secrets and you can be assured that they won’t tell a soul.  All they ask for in return is food, some attention and a rub on the belly.  The simple act of stroking a pet has contributed to lowering stress levels and has had a positive impact on those that live with emotional and mental health issues.

Pets are valuable as therapy for human beings, contributing to life expectancy and a healthier lifestyle.  Our pets assist in keeping us physically active and aid in reducing anxiety and depression, leading us to fewer visits to the doctor.

Dogs and cats are the obvious choice of pets, but that doesn’t rule out other animals, it is based on personal choice and affordability.  Although, we have to consider the cost factor involved in obtaining a pet and keeping up the veterinary bills, the cost of food and consider the distressing thought of the loss of our cute little loved ones, the positives definitely outweigh the negatives.  Waking up to them, including them in our daily activities and giving them a cuddle is well worth it.  For people who are isolated or live with anxiety and depression, having a pet can be very uplifting and comforting.  Great therapy pets to consider are dogs, cats, fish and rabbits.

The physical benefits of owning a pet are:

• Improves cardiovascular health
• Assists in lowering blood pressure
• Releases endorphins that have a calming effect
• Aids in reducing joint pain and helps to diminish overall physical pain

The Mental Health benefits of owning a pet are:

• Reduces isolation and alienation
• Assists in warding off depression
• Provides comfort and a purpose to get up each day
• Decreases anxiety
• Helps to prevent boredom
• Increases community inclusion and social interaction
• Encourages communication.

Pet therapy is used to help improve people’s mental, social, emotional and physical well-being.  Dogs are very loyal and dote on their owners.  The benefit of owning a dog is that you can walk them which aids in reducing stress, lower blood pressure, keeping us physically fit, and reducing weight.  Dogs are great for those people who feel isolated and they are also a great social tool for meeting other people, especially for those who live with social anxiety.  Furthermore, they also serve as a great antidote to ward off depression.

Cats are not dissimilar, aiding in reducing depression and anxiety and are comforting for those who feel isolated.  Rabbits also make great pets; they can be trained like cats and dogs and are great to cuddle.  Fish are wonderful creatures too, as they are calming and so peaceful to watch and can come in an array of colours and sizes.

We know that pets have taken part in visiting programs to assisted living centres throughout the country for many years now, lifting the spirits of the frail and elderly by putting a smile on their faces.  They have also taken part in hospital programs showing positive results and improvement in the recovery of people who are unwell.

If you don’t already own a pet, I would highly recommend that you consider attaining one as part of your family circle.  They have a positive impact on our mental and physical health and are an important part of our lives and well-being.

If you need some help or support through difficult times, please contact me here to talk about counselling services for your specific requirements.