Having a pet to take care of can be one of the ways of managing anxiety and depression. Domesticated animals, particularly dogs and cats possess a certified method of companionship; there is none of them would reject their master no matter how ill he is, and this can greatly contribute to developing a healthy and supportive atmosphere for patients with mental illness.
Pets are companions that offer companionship as well as comfort as a result of their presence. The relationship that is shared between a pet and the owner of the pet can prove to be strengthened and comforting at the same time. In case of anxiety or depression, a pet is a good thing to be around because it consumes the person’s attention instead of the ailment. It has been argued that petting a dog or taking care of a pet in general like feeding it playing with it or just sharing time with it is an effective way of redirecting the mind to focus on other entities rather than having several negative thoughts in mind.
The Benefits of Routine and Companionship
Even something as prosaic as petting a dog or a cat can come with concrete material gain. Staying with pets, for instance, various surveys reveal that it assists in raising levels of oxytocin, a hormone associated with happiness and the fight against stress. It at the same time can decrease cortisol, the stress hormone, and possibly decrease blood pressure. Such physical changes can make affect a person in a manner that makes him or her feel relaxed.
Pets are also useful in the creation of habits in that they bring routine into the lives of their owners. Dependent care usually includes routines such as feeding the animal at specific times or putting them out for exercise among others. This kind of routine can give one a kind of normalcy and a kind of stability that might be very helpful for an individual suffering from anxiety or depression. When life feels tough, having an order of things to do makes them seem less difficult.
Also, being a pet owner is an advantage because the pet can necessitate activities, and the owner gets to socialize more frequently. Going for a walk, say, with a dog, helps the owner get out of the house and opens doors for communication with other dog owners or just other people he or she can meet on the way. As with any topic, a five-minute conversation with a stranger about the person’s pet can counter feelings of loneliness and isolation, which are symptoms of anxiety or depression.
Another one is exercise. Play with a pet such as taking a walk or letting them out for a playtime can assist in the owner incorporating physical exercise in his or her daily routine. That regular exercise is good for the mind is borne by the fact that it triggers the production of molecules in the brain called endorphins, which are natural ‘feel good’ chemicals. Jogging and other recreational activities that involve exposure to outdoor environments have major impacts on the function of the human mind.
A PERSONAL DECISION
This is among the many things that I think can be considered to be equal to this of having a pet; the non-judgmental fellowship that is given. Pets do not look at what their owners are doing and pass a remark; they accept them in their unabashed glory. This may be very encouraging to a person with anxiety or depression because he or she will be free to be who they wants without being judged.
As we have learned today, it is true that to have a pet is a great blessing in the house but in the same breath, one should always bear in mind that pets are major projects. It requires time, energy, more so financial might and as such not everyone can be able to provide a pet to keep. Yet, for anybody who can, there is everything to be received.
Consequently, this paper learns that pets can, indeed, become rather useful in the treatment of anxiety and depression. The presence/being there, the timetables they set and the opportunity afforded for socializing and letting off of steam also helped the mental health.
