I did my PhD on the use of animals?in psychotherapy. More specifically, I researched the use of horses, in combination with traditional psychodynamic psychotherapy with delinquent youth. The results actually showed an improvement in some areas of their functioning. Whilst I no longer practice in this area, I passionately believe that animals add value to our lives and are so important for our mental health! And not just horses. Cats and dogs too as well as hamsters and guinea pigs. You may not have the space for a horse, but a smaller animal works just as well.?
But how do animals actually assist with our mental health?
Let’s have a look at some of the many ways animals help us with our mental health.
- They can help release?the feel-good chemical. The chemical responsible for helping us feel better and thus cope with the demands of our day-to-day lives. Research has shown that just stroking/petting your animal for 10-15 minutes a day, can help you feel better. This is so important in the treatment of depression and anxiety,
- They can make us laugh. Sometimes animals can do the funniest of things just by being animals and this can bring laughter and joy to our lives,
- Animals offer companionship, especially for people who are isolated or lonely. Doesn’t it just fill your heart with joy when you can come home from a hard day’s work and your friendly companion is waiting for you? Perhaps on a cold winter’s day you can cuddle up with them on the couch and watch your favourite movie thus alleviating stress and promoting relaxation,
- They can give us a sense of purpose. Often clients struggle with a sense of purpose and feeling like they are worthwhile. Animals can give you a meaning, a purpose, some responsibility, as you have to look after them. You are responsible for them and their wellbeing. They might even help you achieve and set goals such as attending a dog training course or getting involved in showing your animal
- They offer unconditional love and acceptance. Animals do not judge you. Your dog is always happy to see you regardless of what mood you may be in.
- Animals increase your chances of participating in society. Animals help us to socialise with others that also have common interests. Sometimes a visit to the dog park or the local market gets us talking to others and engaging with them. Or even participating in the local showjumping competition.
- Animals can promote empathy and compassion in both children and adults – animals require you to look after them, you need to take care of their basic needs as well as offer them love and affection.
- Animals can help in improving children’s social and emotional skills (National Institute of Health, 2018). Children can learn how to respond to the animal appropriately and learn to read its cues. For example, when a cat walks away it might want some time to itself.
- Promote exercise, which in turn promotes mental health – you will need to take them for a walk especially if you live in a townhouse or rid your horse!
I’m sure you have heard of animals being used in hospital settings and the like. Some rehabilitation services and centres have animals as part of their programme due to the benefits of having an animal. So, it might be time to consider getting an animal? Make sure though that you have time and the responsibility to look after it, they give as much and more than they receive.
To make an appointment with Dr Pauline Baleta try Online Booking. Alternatively, you can call Vision Psychology Brisbane on (07) 3088 5422.
References
National Institute of Health, February 2018, The Power of Pets