It has been proven by many scientific journals and pet owners alike that pet ownership is beneficial for mental health in more ways than one. The companionship that a pet may offer goes beyond feeling less anxious or lonely. Pets have the ability to motivate and comfort us when we feel hopeless or lost. For many people, pets are a family member that can listen, comfort, and provide care when necessary.
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The Different Conditions Pets Can Assist With
1. Depression
Among the most common mental health problems, people will find depression. It’s no surprise that pets, especially certain dog breeds, can help lessen the effects of depression. However, pets can also calm their owners down and give their day a sense of accomplishment. For example, stroking a pet’s coat or playing with a pet can help calm the mind and the nerves.
Additionally, pets help people feel needed and a sense of achievement is felt daily when the pet’s needs are met. In short, a pet gives someone’s life purpose and a goal.
2. Making Friends
Becoming a pet owner isn’t just about the responsibility of taking care of another living being. In fact, owning a pet makes a person more social by getting in touch with other dog owners at the park or interacting online. Socializing is great for mental health, and pets can help.
Source: www.mnn.com
3. Loneliness
Feeling alone is a normal part of life, and oftentimes according to claritychi.com, older people especially feel the effects of being introverted. Pets are able to provide companionship and give way to a daily routine that both owners and pets can participate in. Not to mention, pets are truly the best listeners!
4. Elder Care
Elderly people dealing with loss or debilitating disease such as Alzheimer’s can instantly benefit from the companionship of a dog or cat according to srcarecenter.com. Pets offer a buffer zone away from dealing with adverse events that can affect a person’s entire life.
5. Childhood ADHD
A child with ADHD can still learn to be responsible and the importance of keeping to a schedule by taking care of a pet. Since a pet requires feeding walking, and care, children with ADHD can benefit in more ways than one.
Children often have a lot of pent up energy that needs to be released. Playing with a kitten or walking a dog is great way to get the blood pumping and oxygen circulating when staying outdoors. By getting more oxygen flow to their brain, children with ADHD can concentrate better.
Source: www.parents.com
Older adults often criticize children for having too much energy and will constantly attempt to calm them down. Instead of reprimanding a child, providing a pet can be a significant and positive impact on their behavior. A pet can calm a child down and provide the love and support they need to cope with stress.
6. Childhood Autism
Autistic children, in most cases, suffer from sensory issues. Parents try to resolve the condition by using sensory integration games and activities. In this way, a child with autism can get accustomed to smells and sights. Horses along with dogs have been used to help calm children with autism.
Though not entirely proven scientifically, many parents have found that with the help of a pet, their child can accomplish more. For example, sensory sensitivity can be lessened and social activities and interaction may be increased.