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Pets are more than just furry companions - they can actually have a positive impact on our mental health. Studies have shown that owning a pet can reduce stress, increase social connections, and even improve physical health. But you knew that already, right? But did you know the science behind why these four-legged (or winged!) creatures are wonderful for us?
1. Pets can help reduce stress and anxiety. And let's face it, there's a lot of that right now.
One of the most well-known benefits of owning a pet is their ability to reduce stress and anxiety. SO many studies have shown that interacting with pets can lower cortisol levels, a hormone associated with stress, and increase levels of oxytocin, a hormone associated with bonding and relaxation. These amazing creatures are like an in-house wellness treatment!
One fact that I learned recently (and it kinda blew me away) is that if you're coming home from work/the gym/another room - in the case of the Noble Hound - your dog does a quick scan of your physical state and then match their heartbeat to yours. I'm not kidding. That's amazing, right?
Whether it’s playing with a dog, cuddling with a cat, or watching fish swim in a tank, pets provide a calming presence and help us feel more relaxed. Except when that puppy of yours has a shoe that they think is the BEST prize ever and decides to decimate it.
That matched heartbeat I mentioned above?
Maybe not so much in that situation.
2. They can provide a sense of purpose and routine. Even when you'd rather stay in bed.
Pets can also give us a sense of purpose and routine in our lives. Which is good when you're feeling like the last thing you want to do is get up, go out, and interact with anyone in the outside world.
That daily routine (the one that parents in their millions since the beginning of time have made very clear to the small humans in their lives) is one that will sometimes also keep us adults sane.
If you're struggling with mental health issues such as depression or anxiety, taking care of another being can be hugely beneficial.
When the Hound heads down to the riverside to stalk pigeons for the 17th time that week, in the moment, I don't feel like it but later, the joy that I see it gives him, makes it worthwhile. And gets me out of my own headspace.
So, you know, beneficial all-round.
3. Pets can increase social connections and decrease feelings of loneliness*
Pets can be great companions and can help increase social connections, which can be especially important if you struggle with feelings of loneliness or you're just having one of 'those' days.
Taking a dog for a walk or going to a dog park can provide opportunities for social interaction and can help you meet new people if that's your thing. Or not. I've had some super conversations with people because of the Hound and others where I've wanted to get the hell out of there because they were either boring or I was being mansplained at. Sometimes, both. I'm not going to lie.
And those 'studies' (yes, them again!) have shown that pet owners are more likely to have social support networks and feel less isolated than those without pets. And if you don't have a pet? Borrow one. Really, dog or cat-sit. All of the fun, none of the responsibility.
*but there are times, let's be honest when talking to other people is just asking too much. At those times, headphones might be the way to go.
4. Pets can improve mood and decrease symptoms of depression.
Spending time with a pet can increase levels of the feel-good hormone, oxytocin, which can help reduce stress and anxiety. Or you need a bit of time to get out of your own head. I'm aware that I sound a little odd when I'm out with the Hound since the voice I use with him is definitely not one that I use in my every day - teaching - life.
Apparently, pet owners have lower levels of cortisol, a hormone associated with stress, compared to non-pet owners. I'm not sure that this is entirely true because there've been quite a few times when the Hound has turned off his 'listening' ears (usually at the beach) and I can tell you that my mood has only improved with a restorative glass of wine.
5. Pets can even help with physical health, such as lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of heart disease.
I love that heading, with the word 'even' in it!
Not ONLY can they do all of the positive mental health things, they can EVEN help with your physical health! Who'd have thought it?
It’s not just mental health that pets can improve, they can also have a positive impact on our physical health. And I can attest to that, racking up a few kilometers every day. And if nothing else, it's a good way to explore your neighbourhood, have a stickybeak into people's gardens, and check out the hidden shopping and eating gems, too.
Studies have shown that pet owners have lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and are less likely to suffer from heart disease. I mean, a pet is NOT a miracle cure! You should definitely see a health professional before you decide to adopt a pet and throw out all your medication, too.
But a bit of fresh air, a daily walk, and some headspace can only be a good thing, right?
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