Pets and Mental Health
Next week (Monday 13th May – Sunday 19th May) is Mental Health Awareness Week, so it seemed an appropriate time to look at the many ways dogs, cats, horses and other pets can help to improve our mental health.
Who doesn’t smile when they see a cute fluffy puppy?
Mental Health
If like me you have suffered poor mental health at any time in your life, you are not alone.
It affects at least 1 in 4 of us
It’s nothing to be ashamed of, and admitting it is certainly not a sign of weakness
…in fact it’s a sign of strength
By talking about it, we can continue to reduce the stigma and help others to open up.
No-one should struggle alone
How can my pet help my mental health?
Without knowing it, by owning a pet you already have an advantage over non-pet owners!
Your pet will provide you with companionship, reducing feelings of loneliness
Stroking a cat or dog, is known to reduce the risk of stroke, by reducing stress hormones and increasing Seratonin – a feel good chemical.
If you have a pet..you already have a best friend!
Being responsible for an animal gives you something to focus on, and a sense of purpose.
Walking a dog guarantees that you will meet people – dog walkers tend to acknowledge other dog walkers, and those that you meet regularly on your walks can even become friends.
“I’m just worn out”
How do we know if what we are feeling is normal…or if it is something that we should worry about?
Mental Health is a spectrum
You may have a diagnosed condition, or you may just be going through a period in your life where things feel difficult to cope with.
Debt, trauma, isolation, relationship problems, lack of sleep, family issues, work stress – just some of the factors that can contribute to feelings of low mood.
What does it look like?
You may feel anxious, depressed, have obsessive thoughts and behaviours, or eating problems.
You may have panic attacks, overthink, have irrational thoughts, or even self-harm or have suicidal feelings.
Spotting early signs and recognising where you are on the spectrum is your first move.
Your GP can obviously signpost you to more specialist help if needed, and of course the Samaritans are a fantastic organisation who support anyone in crisis.
How can I help myself?
Do things that make you happy …..who doesn’t laugh at funny kitten videos on YouTube!
Spend time with people whose company you enjoy – it’s good for your soul
TALK! Don’t suffer alone
MAKE time for yourself – relax and recuperate
Enjoy nature – green space and trees are so good for clearing your head
Join a group for dog owners – training, agility, etc – you will meet like minded people and have fun doing what you enjoy
Arrange dog walks with friends – there is so much evidence to prove that being active improves your mental health
Volunteer – it’s rewarding doing things to help those less fortunate than ourselves.
Lots of dog charities are desperate for dog walkers.
Equally cat shelters are always in need of more volunteers
“To the world you are one person, but to your dog you are their world”.
I hope you have found this article interesting and useful
For more information about mental health please contact Mind
If you are interested in booking a lifestyle photo session of your dog (with or without you), please contact me via Facebook/Instagram
email info@katrinawilsonphotography.co.uk
call/text: 07967 676131