With the increase in the world population and the advancement of society, the number of mental health decline cases has subsequently risen. This surge has led to various therapies being implemented, one of which is pet therapy. So, whether you realise it or not, becoming a pet owner isn’t just about having a cute companion to play with but it extends to nurturing a better mental health state for yourself. Let’s dive into how pets can have a powerful effect on your mental wellness journey.
Improves Cognitive Functions
Despite you not knowing about it, are you aware that engaging with your pet can boost your cognitive functions and boost your brain in ways that you can never imagine? Well, whether you are playing fetch with your pet or strategizing on how to enhance its livelihood, you are triggering your brain into being more engaged, increasing your overall cognitive abilities. As you continue interacting with your pet, it will continuously help to stimulate your mind in ways you may not expect. So if you are having a hard time thinking straight due to a decline in your mental health, having a pet can bring you the mental clarity that you need.
Fosters Resilience
Due to the many life problems that we face in life, it is important to have mechanisms that will give you the boost you need to remain resilient and motivated. Having a pet can be like having a little cheerleader by your side who is there for your ups and downs and throughout all life has to offer. Besides providing that motivation to stay resilient, pets can require a lot of patience as well for them to be well-kept. So every time you find that your things have been misplaced and that your pet has been mischievous in a way, your resilience will also be tested and eventually enhanced. Therefore, this ability to manage unexpected situations and recover from them can translate to other areas of life, helping you build emotional strength and resilience in the face of adversity.
Social Support Tool
Pets aren't just animals that have been domesticated. They end up being part of your family and because of this, a part of your social system that makes you feel supported, even when you have no one else to lean on. By providing the companionship that you so desperately need, pets will become part of your social network. It is almost as though your loneliness is replaced by this companionship, making you feel belonging. Despite the pets themselves being a companion, interacting with other pet owners at the park or pet gatherings will also open room for you to make newer social connections. This will blossom into a social network that will help combat loneliness and foster a sense of belonging that you require to keep your mental health.
Promotes A Physical Activity
One thing about pets is that they will get you moving around and getting some exercise in. Whether it is walking your dog, chasing your pet around or playing games with it: you will be able to get some exercise more often than you do when you don't have all these responsibilities. This increase in physical activity can have significant benefits for your mental health as it will help boost your mood through the release of feel-good hormones (endorphins). Therefore, being the primary caregiver for pets like cats and dogs, you'll find that your physical health will be improved due to your constant interaction with the pets.
Helps Reduce Stress
The simple act of petting your pet can lower your stress levels and create a sense of calm even without you knowing. Picture this: you are coming home from work, and you had a really bad day where you probably even got into a fight with your boss. Then you finally get home to find your dog, wide-eyed and waiting for you by the door. Isn't this just instantly stress relieving? As simple as this may seem, it will help get your distress replaced with a sense of calm and warmth so much so that the stress will be kicked out of your system. Your pet can be just what you need to stay refreshed and rejuvenated after a stressful day, making your mental health better.
Promotion of Mindfulness
With the way your dog is a track star, you probably can't keep your eyes away from it when you are outside. This, therefore, requires you to be in the moment when you are with your pet, bringing us to how pets promote mindfulness. As you engage with your pet, you learn to appreciate the little things and the simple joys that come with being a pet owner like playing games or just sharing a snuggle. Unknown to you, by doing this, you are releasing anxiety from your system, all of which is very good for your mental health.
Provides a Sense of Purpose
When you only have to fend for yourself, you may find yourself feeling lazy and unmotivated. However, having to take care of your pet every morning will keep you conscious of the fact that you have a dependent, motivating you to ensure that you provide the pet with food, exercise, and the love it needs. This responsibility can be incredibly fulfilling, especially for those who may feel lost or overwhelmed in other areas of life( probably due to mental health issues). Giving someone who is going through mentally challenging times an opportunity to take care of something beyond themselves would give them a sense of purpose again, making them more motivated ( and ultimately healthier).