As the proud father of two wonderful furball cats, Precious and Mr. Biscuit, I can personally attest to the healing power of pets.
My husband Eduardo and I actually adopted our first cat at the beginning of the pandemic in 2020. We all remember lockdown and how isolating that period was for all of us. Despite the stress of work and social life, having the positive energy of caring for a pet and receiving unconditional love has been a huge help to my own mental health.
Pet owners already know the joy that comes with sharing life with a furry companion, but did you know that pets can also improve our mental health?
Caring for a pet can help reduce anxiety and stress, increase companionship, increase exercise, and meet new people.
Touch and movement are two healthy ways to quickly deal with stress. Petting a dog, cat, or other animal can lower blood pressure, instantly calm you down, and reduce stress. Pets tend to live in the moment, so they can help you live more in the moment and take your mind off the stresses of the day. When you come home to your pet, it's easy to forget everything that happened at work. It's a great mental reset.
Isolation can literally be deadly. Isolation and loneliness can lead to symptoms of depression, but some form of companionship, even with pets, can help prevent illness and even extend lifespans. Caring for an animal can help you feel wanted and wanted, especially if you live alone, and can take your mind off your problems. Most dog and cat owners talk to their pets, which helps us process our thoughts, feelings, and emotions. Nothing beats loneliness like coming home to a tail wagging or a cat purring.
Taking your dog for a walk, hike, or run is a fun and rewarding way to incorporate daily healthy exercise into your schedule and improve your mood. I don't think changing your cat's litter box is exercise, but the point is to add extra movement to your day, and this is helpful for any pet. Any amount of physical activity, especially outdoors, can help clear your mind.
Dog owners often stop and talk on walks, hikes, and dog parks, and meet new people at pet stores and dog training classes. I think I like comparing the best cat toys with fellow cat owners. Knowing the best lasers to get excited about is essential, but it's also good to use it as an opportunity to connect and find common ground with others.
Maine is a state with an aging population, so pets are especially helpful for seniors. In addition to the benefits mentioned above, pets can also help you find meaning and joy in life. As we get older, we can lose the things that used to occupy our time. Caring for a pet increases your overall self-esteem by feeding and being responsible for another living thing. It can also add structure to your day when you step away from the daily hustle and bustle of your career. Pets like to have a consistent routine, which is beneficial for their owners as well. When you choose to adopt a pet from a shelter, you will feel fulfilled knowing that you have provided a home for a pet in need of a loving home.
If you don't have a pet or don't have the ability to own a pet, don't worry. You also have a choice. Local animal shelters are always looking for volunteers. This is a great way to give back and get all the therapeutic benefits of being around animals while also having an impact on your mental health.
Bottom line: Be thankful for your furry friends. They can improve our lives in so many ways, including our own mental health.
Justin Chenette is Sweeter's Senior Director of Public Relations and Outreach. The company provides evidence-based treatment, support and hope through a statewide network of community-based mental health, recovery and education services. For more information, please visit www.Sweetser.org.
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