Pets: Their presence is good for mental health

As science confirms, their proximity is good for the heart, soul, and brain. But this, pet owners already know.

All owners of dogs and cats, and pets in general, do not need confirmation from science to be able to recognize the benefits of their presence in the house. A caress, a cuddle given at any time of the day, purring or joyful barking: these things can make us smile even after the worst of days.

They fight loneliness, bring warmth to the heart, give us unconditional love, and all they ask for in return is just our attention. What is created between humans and pets is one of the purest and most authentic bonds of love ever.

But some do not believe in this magic out of skepticism or cynicism. And it is at this point that, if the experiences of others are not enough to make us understand how much dogs and cats can be good for the heart and the brain, science enters the field.

Several pieces of research done in the field confirm the benefits of having a pet. In particular, a study conducted by the Universities of Miami and Saint Louis, later published in the American Psychological Association, confirmed that thinking about your pet gives the same pleasant and soothing sensation as when we think of friends or loved ones.

The study in question found that pet owners are happier, have higher self-esteem, are outgoing, and tend to feel less alone than those who, on the other hand, do not share life with a pet. These living beings’ presence in everyday life acts as a medicine for happiness; this is especially true when we feel more stressed or lonely.

Further confirmation of this comes from another study conducted by the Universities of York and Lincoln, which revealed that the presence of animals contributes to maintaining good mental health and significantly reduces the feeling of loneliness that can occur during life.

A new study published in BMC Psychiatry shows that pets improve humans’ mental health by granting them emotional stability that can soothe psychological disorders and trauma. The researchers explain that “they are a very important source of support in managing long-term mental problems.”

Although pet therapy is taking some steps toward its complete legitimacy, psychiatry has not yet embraced the potential of the presence of animals. Helen Brooks, the study’s author at the University of Manchester, asked 54 volunteers with serious problems such as bipolar and schizophrenia to evaluate which aspects of their daily routine. They thought they were healthier: 60% rated the time spent with animal friends as the first choice and 20% as the second.

Of course, the research requires further research, but, as Dr. Brooks points out, the volunteers who participated in the study “believe that their pet plays a positive role in their life, helping them, for example, to manage the shame associated with their condition. Accepting them without judging them. Pets are also considered particularly useful during times of crisis. They offer unconditional support, which these people often don’t get from their families or society. They are important for their health”.

But for pet owners, we’re sure this is no surprise at all. Anyone with a puppy at home knows when its presence can be good for the heart, soul and brain.