It’s been estimated that nearly 1 in 3 people will face mental health challenges at some point during their lifetime. Chronic stress, isolation, social anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder can all take their toll and prevent us from living our lives to the fullest. Now, if you’ve been struggling with mental health, one of the most effective remedies out there is pet ownership. In fact, owning a household animal can do wonders to make us feel loved, beat loneliness, and keep us active. In that spirit, we’ve put together a useful guide that explores the power of pet ownership and how adopting a pet can help boost your mental health.

Stress Relief

There’s something undeniably therapeutic about being in the presence of a domesticated animal. Whether it’s a dog, a cat, or even a rabbit or a hamster, these adorable creatures are just a joy to be around. Not only are they a cute, pleasant sight, but petting them has also been proven to release happiness hormones and suppress cortisol, the stress-inducing hormone. Scientifically speaking, the act of stroking an animal can immediately lower blood pressure, helping us feel calmer and less stressed. So, whenever you’re dealing with major responsibilities at home or at work, remember that your pet will always be there to help soothe your spirits at the end of the day.

Comfort and Companionship

In the same way they can help reduce stress and anxiety, animals are also a major source of comfort and companionship for those struggling with mental wellness. As seen on https://www.certapet.com/dsm-5/, pet owners are significantly less likely to experience isolation or suffer from depression. Notably, an emotional support animal (ESA) provides loyal companionship for people who live alone, have recently moved to a new town, or those who are naturally prone to isolation. As such, it’s fair only fair to assume that the kind of emotional bond you’ll develop with your household animals will do wonders for your psychological balance.

Exercise Buddy

If you’ve been wanting to get active but always find excuses, adopting a pet can be a great motivation to get your daily dose of exercise and stay fit. Remember that chronic inactivity can lead to obesity, diabetes, and a host of other ailments. So, with a dog to take care of, feed, bathe, cuddle with, and walk out every day, you’ll adopt a healthy lifestyle that will help you stay in shape, both physically and mentally. Besides, engaging in physical activity with your favorite pet will strengthen your connection and enable you to feel all the love they have for you, and vice versa!

Communication and Socialization

Social shyness and anxiety can be very damaging. At times, we lack the confidence to express ourselves and our opinions, or tend to feel uncomfortable in social situations. Pet ownership can help tremendously in that regard. Training your dog or cat can help develop your communication, both verbal and non-verbal, which promotes a sense of confidence and boosts your self-esteem. Likewise, when you’re out on a walk, visiting the pet store, or attending a training class, you’re more likely to meet new people and forge friendships with like-minded people.

Structure and Purpose

Many of us often experience difficulties planning out our days, sticking to a fixed schedule, and maintaining a consistent lifestyle while juggling with all of our responsibilities. Having an animal at home helps put structure and order in our lives, making us feel accomplished and needed. This serves to instill a sense of purpose in those who struggle with self-doubt and a sense of helplessness. When you choose to adopt and care for your animal, you’ll become the center of their lives, which means they will depend on you for everything. That is a prime reason why people with suicidal tendencies or bipolar disorders are often encouraged to adopt a cat or a dog, namely to reacquaint them with an eventful and purposeful life.

Let’s not forget that living with a pet is a major responsibility. They’re comparable to babies, in many ways; we must feed and bathe them, discipline them, and pick up after their mess. But at the end of the day, we simply wouldn’t imagine what our lives would be like without them. Having a pet allows us to give and feel love, feel comforted, stay healthy, and boosts our confidence. So, whether you’ve been dealing with chronic anxiety, depression, PTSD, or any other altering mental condition, it’s time for you to consider adopting a furry companion. It will certainly require daily care and attention, but it’ll all be worth it in the end!

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