Since the pandemic, anxiety levels have risen. The World Health Organisation said, “in the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, global prevalence of anxiety and depression increased by a massive 25%.” Pets have become a main coping strategy for many people to reduce their stress and boost their mood. Even the simple act of stroking an animal can reduce stress-related hormones.
Animals can help in diverse ways to boost mental health positively. Taking your dog on a walk and being outdoors, not only is good for your physical health, but is great for the mind, the fresh air stimulates the production of serotonin, the “feel-good” chemical. Stroking your cat can significantly reduce levels of cortisol, a stress related hormone. It can also lower blood pressure and resting heart rate, meaning you feel calmer and more relaxed. Especially if you’ve had a tough day, coming home to a pet can help you unwind and focus on something else.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been an ever-growing feeling of loneliness and social isolation. During that time, according to the RSPCA, “more than one million people moved into the category of chronic loneliness.” There has also been a growth in pet adoption since then. In a January 2021 report by Rover, “nearly 40% of British people welcomed a new dog during the COVID-19 pandemic.” Having a pet decreases the feeling of loneliness, due to having someone to care for and have as a companion, giving you an incentive to keep going. Dr Carri Westgarth, Lecturer in Human-Animal Interaction at University of Liverpool says, “Dog walking helps us connect with nature and with other people out walking.” Simply taking your dog on a walk can open up a whole new community and give you conversation-starters to reconnect with people.
Animals are becoming a positive coping mechanism for loneliness and poor mental health. Pets offer a source of comfort and companionship, making people feel less isolated. From personal experience, I’ve noticed a significant decrease in my anxiety after adopting my rescue dog in 2022. Pets are a great way of boosting your mood, especially when you walk through the door greeted by a waggy tail and a happy face.
By Millie Y12
Boston High School Newsroom
This makes me appreciate my cat so much more!! 😊😺