According to the WHO it is expected that, in the coming months and years, the need for psychosocial support and in the field of mental health will grow considerably due to the pandemic, this is why today we are going to write about the main benefits of having a pet. Owning a pet improves our mental health, so diminished by the circumstances that we are living.
And it is that, although we may not realize, pets occupy a very important place in the care of our mind. During confinement, companion animals have helped more than 40% of households cope with the situation, being a strong emotional support.
Our pets have a dual role when it comes to helping us: on one hand, they are a strong support in the affective section since they have the ability to alleviate worry and give love and comfort to the owners; on the other hand, performing care tasks to your pets (feeding, walking, playing, cleaning …) is a perfect task to distract yourself from problems, which can help solve many of them.
They contribute to do not feel alone and improve self-esteem
For those who live alone and tend to feel insecure, having and doing activities with a pet will help them gain self-confidence and enjoy their time alone at home. Companion animals stimulate physical contact and communication and, in addition, help to calm loneliness and improve the individual’s social development.
Are you one of those who talks to your dog or your cat? Well, keep it up.
Many psychological studies assure that it is healthy, sometimes, to speak out loud as it helps to put our thoughts in order. So, if we apply it with our pets, it will be much more beneficial since we will exercise our mind and create a greater bond with our furry.
They contribute to social development
For those who are insecure or introverted, having a pet can be a form of social development. Specifically dogs, by having to take them out for a walk, create the perfect situation to interact with other owners, producing new social relationships and even friendships.
The same thing happens with children: having a pet favors the development of social skills allowing them to be less lonely and seek more relationships.
Help with depression
Pets have the ability to reduce the negative thoughts of a person suffering from depression since the emotional bond that is created is so great that it can become an anchor to life.
The simple fact of complying with the basic care of the pet is a reason for the owner to get up to go for a walk, feed, go to the vet and even do physical exercise. Although it may seem like a small thing, all these activities can be decisive in the recovery process.
At the same time, meeting an animal that will always listen to us and will never judge us, makes those who are unable to show their feelings or talk about them to do so with their pets. The pet will always be loyal to its owner, come what may.
Reduce stress
Petting your pet reduces your stress. We are not saying it, but researchers at Washington State University (WSU) have concluded that stroking your pet has therapeutic effects on your mood and helps reduce stress.
You only need ten minutes a day to notice the benefits and your anxiety and nervousness levels will drop significantly. So give your furry some good pampering!
Other benefits
Last but not least, pets can be great help in diseases such as Alzheimer’s, improving outbursts of anxiety and stress.
In addition, children with ADHD can benefit from having a pet by learning to be responsible, play, and gain self-confidence. Moreover, for children and people with autism, the animal will create a calming environment, greatly improving their life.
With all this, we encourage you to enjoy this double benefit relationship:
Your mental health will be in full power and your furry friend will be the happiest ever!
