Ways Owning a Pet Can Help with Your Mental Health
- Written by NewsServices.com
There’s no doubt about it – pets enrich our lives in more ways than one. They provide the companionship human beings crave and thrive on, and they also shower us with unconditional love and attention. But aside from being loyal friends, pets also contribute significantly to our mental well-being. Interactions between humans and animals do wonders when it comes to lowering stress levels while also acting as powerful mood-boosters.
Whether you’re thinking of getting a pet to take care of or simply wondering what you can do to improve your psychological well-being in general, here are some of the ways owning a pet can help with your mental health.
They help keep those stress levels in check
Modern lifestyle along with overflowing schedules and the seemingly endless to-do lists can feel overwhelming and sometimes even downright draining. Nowadays it’s easier than ever to get caught in the chaotic mess that our world is, and let life's challenges get the best of us. Identifying practical and simple ways to reduce stress and anxiety is vital in this age, and this is where pets can be of tremendous help.
Even non-verbal communication such as watching a fish swim in its aquarium or simply patting a dog or a cat can go a long way in helping you keep those stress levels in check. Take advantage of any opportunity you can to initiate interaction, and you’ll be replacing your cortisol with oxytocin in no time.
They provide companionship and reduce loneliness
The truth is, all humans crave the sense of togetherness and belonging. We all like to feel needed, and having someone to care for is a great way to fulfill that need. Bonding with your pet and nurturing them fosters a sense of purpose, while also reducing loneliness and helping you feel less isolated.
Sometimes, that will mean getting a bunch of interactive cat toys to play with your little furball or treating your feathered friend to some cute chewables to keep them stimulated. Other times, it’ll involve simply talking to your animal friend or taking them for a stroll. Either way, interacting with your pet can be very beneficial for your mental well-being. The more opportunities for interaction you provide, the bigger the positive impact will be.
They offer numerous opportunities for social interaction
Whether you’re an introvert or an extrovert, there’s no doubt that having an active social life is vital. Not only does it help keep your brain healthy, but it also enriches your life. This is where owning a pet can be of tremendous help. Even something as simple as taking your dog for a walk or to the vet offers plenty of opportunities for social interaction with other pet owners.
Head to your local park or beach, or look up events in your area that are pet-friendly. You can also search for upcoming pet shows or find an animal club you can join. The truth is, the simple fact of owning a pet can open doors for plenty of opportunities for making friends and even forming long-lasting relationships, all thanks to your furry little friend.
They can help you stay fit and in shape
Pets are great for keeping your mental health in shape, but they can also help you be more physically active. The truth is, mental and physical well-being are very much intertwined. They impact one another tremendously, so taking care of both of them is essential.
Because owning a pet also means taking them for regular walks and coming up with a variety of activities to keep them active, you’re bound to implement some kind of physical activity into your daily schedule as well. This, in turn, can help you stay fit and in shape. While this mostly applies to dog owners, you can reap some major health benefits if you’re a cat lover, too. Feline friends are known to reduce the risk of asthma and allergies, and even heart attack. Whatever pet you have, they’re certain to boost your vitality and make your life much more joyful.
The final word
Caring for a pet certainly comes with its own set of responsibilities. However, taking on this role can be incredibly rewarding, and offer some major mental health benefits in return. Head to your local shelter or a pet shop nearby, and you can start reaping the rewards that come with being a loving and caring pet owner.
Meta Description
Our animal friends can certainly make days brighter and put a smile on our face, but did you know they can also do wonders when it comes to our mental health?
References
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/7-ways-pets-improve-your-health
https://www.newportacademy.com/resources/well-being/pets-and-mental-health/
https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2018/02/power-pets
https://www.helpguide.org/articles/mental-health/mood-boosting-power-of-dogs.htm
https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/a-z-topics/pets-and-mental-health
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322716#A-soothing-massage-for-the-soul
