In a demanding world where feelings of anxiety, stress and depression have been consistently on the rise over the years, we’re finally starting to increase our awareness around the topic of mental heath, and what we can do to help ourselves and others.
Perhaps it comes to no surprise, that the comforting presence of man's best friend, dogs, and their unconditional fondness for their human companions, has an unparalleled positive impact on mental health. Dogs have a great way of making us feel seen, at ease, and unconditionally loved, which helps calm down the human mind.
Now, let’s get into some of the benefits that owning a dog can have towards mental health :
1. Reducing Stress
Ever had a difficult day at the office, but then feel your stress start melting away as soon as you’re greeted with a tail-wagging happy pooch back home ? Ive definitely had those days. Research also suggests that even the mere act of petting an animal reduces stress in human beings. In fact, many people who suffer from stress disorders such as PTSD have experienced remarkable benefits after adopting a service dog. We can see a literal decrease in cortisol (stress hormone) and increase in oxytocin (love hormone) in such case studies.
2. Active , Health Lifestyle
Whether you like it or not, having a dog will require you to be more active. On the bright side, a key component of managing mental health is physical activity, and dogs are natural facilitators of this. The regular walks, play sessions, and the routine care can significantly increase physical activity levels. This doesn't only keep you fit physically (lower blood pressure, increase cardiac health etc.) but mentally too, as exercise has been linked to improved mood and decreased symptoms of depression and anxiety.
3. Social Interactions
Whilst animals themselves serve as a form of comfort and social support for people, dogs specifically, encourage people to be more social with other human beings. Since dogs require their own socialisation, they encourage their owners to visit dog parks, which naturally open up pathways for social interactions. Whether you’re just walking your furry friend around the block by your house or taking a drive to the park, dogs make it easier to start conversations, and you’re bound to end up talking to other dog parents or dog lovers at one point or another. This interaction with others helps reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation, which are amongst the core factors that lead to mental health issues.
4. Development of Children
Many guardians have extensive conversations about whether or not to get a pet for their children due to the responsibility that goes hand-in-hand with owning a furry friend. However, given the right approach, owning a pet can significantly improve the social and personal development of a child.
Studies have shown that children who are taught how to properly take care of animals have higher emotional intelligence and empathy, increase in self-confidence, improved social skills, and display an increase in taking ownership of house chores as well as other responsibilities. Additionally, animals also provide children with a safe companion whom they can rely on both during times of joy and sadness.
5. Sense of Purpose and Routine
At YMCA, we see a number of roofless individuals who choose to give up the shelter options that are unable to also accept their pets. Undoubtedly, the companionship and unconditional love that is reciprocated between the human and the pet is unmatched. Numerous studies have been carried out on the effects of animal companionship on people experiencing homelessness - these have shown that on top of the social support, pets also improve the mental health of their owners as well as help them to establish a routine and develop a sense of purpose. The daily routine that comes with owning a dog - feeding, walking, grooming - provides a sense of structure and promotes feelings of accomplishment.
All things considered, dogs are much more than adorable, un-paying housemates. They’re our companions through thick and thin, our solace in tranquil and turmolous times alike. With their unwavering love and loyalty, dogs help provide a safe space lack of any judgement, and in turn, enhance our mental health.
"Adopting a dog could mean embarking on a journey towards improved mental health, but always remember it's a two-way street. Just as they care for you, these loyal pals depend on you for their well-being too."
If you’ve experienced the positive influence of dogs on mental health, we’d love to hear your stories. Share them with us in the comment section below!
We’re organizing a dog walk in collaboration with YMCA. Join us on Sunday the 21st April 2024 at 10am for a stroll through Buskett with our furry friends. (Dog Lovers are welcome too!) Register here or join the event directly on the WagsUnite app.
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