Pets and mental health

Last week it was Mental Health Awareness Week which I have written about here and this week it's National Vegetarian Week which, as long-time vegan I obviously support. Animals are amazing creatures and companions for humans. Furthermore, recently I have read more and more about how pets help owners who suffer from mental heath problems and as my cat is such a comfort to me, I wanted to dedicate this post to all pets like her.

The Mental Health Foundation has a section dedicated to how having a pet can help with different areas of mental health. HuffPost lists 12 ways in which your pet can help your mental health. Dale Partridge, of The Daily Positive, has written on his website about how dogs can help owners with depression. If dogs particularly help those fighting depression, cats can help those suffering from anxiety. The Mental Health Foundation writes that cats: 'provide a great source of comfort, companionship and motivation for their owners and help reduce anxiety and stress'.

Both cats and dogs live in the moment, encouraging mindfullness in the owner. They help shift the focus from worrying about something/problems to caring for or playing with the animal (even if only for a few minutes). Having to walk and feed the dog or cat can create a routine or structure which is helpful for those struggling with depression. Animals can be a constant presence if you are feeling lonely indoors. Stroking or cuddling your cat or dog reduces the stress hormones in your body, easing anxiety. Their unconditional love is reassuring and their happiness when playing is often contagious.

When I first got my kitten, my OCD was getting worse. As a result, I would obsess over her safety, checking the flat over and over and over again to make sure she was ok. I would also worry excessively about germ issues. So it wasn't easy. But when I spent a lot of time indoors, and in one room even, due to my anxiety disorders, my cat was always with me. I believe they can sense when humans are upset and keep close by to comfort them. When they sleep near you, they radiate such calm. When I play with or feed my cat it can help pull me out of negative or reoccuring thought cycles. Sometimes I can't explain how she helps me other than that she makes me smile. And isn't that reason enough when you don't feel mentally well?

Pets need a lot of care, they are expensive to look after and the decision to get one should not be taken lightly. However, the sum of positive things they can bring to your life is invaluable.

Some children with learning difficulties or autism have been known to talk to their pets when they don't communicate well with other humans. When there is nothing but simple affection and no judgement on the other side, I can see how pets promote healing and happiness in their owners.

Therapy Cat

When there is panic inside my head,

You are calm, curled up on my bed.

When thoughts unpredictable alter my mood,

You are like clockwork asking for food.

When things seem difficult to do that day,

You bring me a toy so I have to play.

When I sit overwhelmed by thoughts,

You sit with me, just because.

A poem by LJ.

For more info:

National Vegetarian Week

Mental Health Awareness Week

The Mental Health Foundation