The fact that our pets make us feel good is generally known. Moreover, it seems that pets can have a positive effect on us even when we have mental diseases. At least people who suffer from those claim that.
People living with a severe mental illness say their pets are one of the most important aspects which helps them handle their complicated situation. In the study published in BMC Psychiatry which deals with the support of mentally ill, 60 percent of the people asked stated their pets belonged to the central circle of their support network and other 20 percent said they were important support.
Animals help people handle their feelings better. They make them not to focus on the symptoms of their illness and calm them down. Sometimes all it takes is everyday care of the animal, caressing it or a mere presence or proximity of a second creature. Moreover, pets get integrated to the network of person’s relationships which is often impaired for mentally ill people and they have troubles with establishing interpersonal relationships. These are important for human health.
The relationship of a person and an animal is not so complicated and it tends to be always positive. These relationships differ from those interpersonal in the fact that they’re our own choices contrary to our relationships with relatives, for example. Animals do not judge nor doubt us. This removes the burden from the negative feelings connected to the relationship, the lack of self-confidence does not hurt it and it has other positive aspects.
For mentally ill people, even getting out of bed in the morning and get outside among other people might be difficult. A dog will make them get out of bed as it has its needs. And pets also help patients to get back to their thorough daily routine – every animal needs to be fed every day, a regularly cleaned toilet and its hair needs care... We also have to take into account the fact that if an ill person loses his/her will to take care of himself/herself (it doesn’t matter if it’s due to mental or physical health), it’s risky for the pet to be only dependent on him/her. However, a person might get a new lease on life thanks to a pet.
Animals have definitely a positive influence on the mental health of people and it’s a shame that studies that deal with this issue are considered to be too trivial and they don’t get the attention they deserve. In my opinion, pets have a lot to offer and I personally see their positive influence basically every day. They help me to get rid of bad moods, they always come when I need cuddling and they make me get out of the sofa. What do you think? Can pets help to cure mental health problems?
Simon’s Cat, Grumpy Cat or Lil Bub, these are celebrities among cats almost every cat lover knows. However, I will introduce you to a few blogs related to cats in general where you can find interesting information, advice and experience from living...
Kennel cough is a common and easily spread dog disease. How is it transmitted, what progress does it have and how is it treated? Even though it cannot be transmitted to humans, it may endanger other pets in the household.
Winter doesn’t need to be a synonym for tiredness and lying on a sofa in the comfort of your home. This year, there wasn’t much snow. However, this doesn’t need to stand between you and your dog’s walking outside and having fun.
There are quite a few dog food cans on the market. What should we take into account to pick the right one?
Every proper cat lover is not just fine with having one cat companion at home. Some people collect cat figures, others fancy books about cats and some may like watching cat films. Do you like it, too? If you do, you might get some inspiration here.
Dogs of this small breed are curious and full of energy. They love being at the centre of attention, so they like to show off. They are loyal and sensitive companions which do not handle separation well.
You might have come across something about BFRs in discussions concerning a fearful dog, moving a cat or New Year’s Eve celebrations. Are you wondering what they are and what they can help your pet with?
In today’s hectic world, many people don’t dare to get a dog because of the financial burden it presents and the time it consumes. Others can’t have a dog because of their health issues. Nevertheless, they have an opportunity to spend some time with a...
Have you ever wondered how it is possible that dogs can wade through snow or run on ice with their bare feet and the paws don’t get frostbites? We know why!
The Oriental Shorthair cats are very similar to Siamese cats in terms of their appearance as well as character. These elegant cats are suitable for extroverts who are looking for a companion at all times. This is because you will always know about...
Is rice, i.e. cereals, good for a dog’s diet? Is it just a filler or a valuable source of nutrients?
A study has shown that dogs have a certain talent for languages that had only been associated with people before. Their skills for the recognition of human speech are far more complex than we have been aware of so far.
