Pets have been an essential part of human life for thousands of years. They have served as loyal companions, protectors, and playmates throughout history. But their importance has gone beyond just being a companion. Pets are now recognised for their role in therapy, helping individuals with emotional and mental health issues cope with their problems.
The use of therapy animals in mental health dates back to the 1860s, when Florence Nightingale used pets as a means to improve the morale and mental state of soldiers during wartime. Today, therapy pets are more commonly used in settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, hospices, and even schools.
The role of pets in therapy can be traced back to the emotional support they provide. Individuals with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) feel lonely, isolated, and struggle to connect with others. Pets, on the other hand, offer unconditional love, affection, and acceptance. They listen without judgment and offer comfort in times of distress.
Pets help individuals manage their emotions by providing a calming presence. They promote relaxation, reduce stress levels, and help individuals feel less anxious. As such, therapy animals are common in different settings, with studies indicating that they can provide a range of benefits for individuals experiencing emotional and mental health issues.
Dogs, cats, and other pets can be trained to provide certain therapeutic activities. For instance, dogs can be trained to alert individuals with anxiety or PTSD when they are experiencing a panic attack. They can also be trained to provide deep pressure therapy by leaning against the individual or cuddling with them, causing a release in the “feel-good” hormone, oxytocin.
Pet therapy or animal-assisted therapy (AAT) has shown impressive results in helping individuals with mental health conditions. Research has shown that AAT can help reduce depression and anxiety, improve mood, enhance social skills and communication, and lessen agitation in individuals with dementia or Alzheimer’s.
Pets have become more than just a companion, they play a significant role in positively impacting individuals with mental health issues. The love and affection displayed by pets, coupled with the lack of judgment, make them a perfect addition to traditional therapy. While a pet may not solve all mental health issues, it can help create positive changes in the lives of individuals dealing with these issues.
In conclusion, pets have a remarkable influence on our emotional and mental health, making them an essential component in therapy. They provide a sense of purpose, companionship, and unconditional love that is crucial to our overall wellbeing. The role of pets in therapy is evident in the numerous benefits they offer, including emotional support and mental health. Therapy pets offer the perfect opportunity for individuals with mental health disorders to feel comforted, supported, and valued, and it is something that should be encouraged and practiced in our everyday lives.
