In today’s world it is not very uncommon to have domestic animals like dogs, cats or birds as your pet companion. Even though the pets become reliant on the person harboring them for their daily needs, they also have something to give in return. Pets can be incredibly beneficial for individuals struggling with common mental health disorders. Interacting with pets can help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety by increasing levels of the feel-good hormone oxytocin and decreasing levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Pets provide companionship and a sense of purpose, which can be particularly helpful for individuals experiencing feelings of loneliness or isolation. Pets can play an important role in helping individuals overcome common mental health disorders and improve their quality of life.
Pets companionship for children’s Emotional Development
Having a pet can greatly benefit a child's emotional development. Pets offer unconditional love, which helps children develop positive self-esteem and form healthy attachments. Pets also teach kids important values such as responsibility, empathy, and compassion. When kids become emotionally attached to their pets, they tend to develop better social skills and build stronger relationships with others. Taking care of a pet can also encourage children to be more curious and creative, while learning the value of perseverance. Pets can help children become more emotionally secure, active, and intelligent for their future endeavors.
The Benefits of Pet Companionship for the Elderly
Pets offer older adults valuable companionship, helping alleviate loneliness and bringing joy into their lives. As people age, they may lose things that once gave them purposes, such as a career or close family ties. Caring for a pet, particularly one adopted from a shelter, can provide a sense of fulfillment and boost self-worth. Pets, especially dogs, can help older adults stay socially connected, facilitating new friendships and conversations. Additionally, pets can help boost vitality through playfulness, laughter, and exercise, ultimately improving immune function and energy levels. Pet companionship can significantly benefit the emotional and physical well-being of older adults.
Pet Care as a Therapy
Taking care of pets has also proved to be the best therapy for relieving stress, anxiety, and other mental disorders. Some of the major benefits of pet therapy in mental illnesses are:
- Playing with a pet can instantly relax you by boosting serotonin and dopamine levels, providing sensory stress relief.
- Pets can help their owners meet new people, with dog owners often socializing during walks or at pet-related events.
- Children with autism or other learning difficulties may find it easier to connect with pets than people, helping them learn social cues and regulate stress.
- Pets can be particularly beneficial for children with learning disabilities, improving their attention, self-esteem, and coping skills.
Conclusion
The basic gist of pet therapy is only this: By taking care of others in need, you can also help yourself organize your lifestyle. Pet therapy is one of the best holistic approaches to curing common mental disorders.
If you're someone or know someone who is suffering from common mental disorders, then get connected to Solh Wellness platform. Preventive mental health solutions are the key to a happy life, and we strive to provide them with holistic approaches, Non-Judgmental safe space, self-help tools & much more. Download the Solh Wellness App and be the best version of yourself.
