Globally, it is estimated that 5% of the population (264 million people) suffer from depression according to the World Health Organisation. Depression is a common mental disorder that is characterised by persistent sadness and a lack of interest, whilst anxiety is a feeling of unease, worry or fear that can range from mild to severe episodes.

A recent Straits Times study between May 2020 to June 2021 revealed that over 13% of Singaporean participants reported feeling symptoms of anxiety or depression during the Covid-19 pandemic. This is an increase from official and unpublished reports from pre-Covid times. The heightened stress around fear of contracting the disease, and also other financial and environmental factors, may have pushed many people over their psychological limits.

Over 13% of Singaporean participants reported feeling symptoms of anxiety or depression during the Covid-19 pandemic

Dogs, cats, and other pets are long known to help with our mental health and relief. Therapy dogs have been used globally for many individuals during times of anxiety and depression. What is this valuable science behind our connection with our pets and its benefits to our mental health?

Dogs Keep Us Moving

It is scientifically proven that people with dogs have lower blood pressure and are less likely to develop heart disease. This is backed by the frequent requirement to keep our dogs engaged in activities, which releases dopamine and oxytocin in our system. Dopamine and oxytocin are commonly known as our happy hormones that elevate our moods. Exercising with our dogs also releases endorphins, a hormone that helps individuals deal with stress and reduce feelings of pain.

Due to the need for consistency and routine in dogs, dog owners are often coerced into these daily activities, which results in excellent benefits for our body and our mind.

Pets Keep Us Social

Have you ever brought your dog to a local dog park to play, and gradually became friends with owners of your pup’s playmates? Or have you walked past other dog owners in your neighbourhood and stopped to have a chat about your furry friends? These social situations are not limited to just dog owners, but cat owners, insect owners and more. Keeping a pet is challenging, but these challenges cause us to seek out answers in the form of community forums and other pet owners. We intuitively look for answers and involve ourselves in social groups to stay up to date and engaged on what is best for our furry friends. This act of being social and staying involved helps us to develop positive relationships and social support, decreasing the risk of falling into a depressive episode.

Caring for an animal also requires time and dedication, which takes away the focus on your depression.

Pets Help With Self-Esteem

Caring for a pet dog or cat is a huge responsibility, and it requires a lot of commitment and effort. Taking ownership of these challenges develops our character and self-esteem along with a strong reassurance that we are able to look after another creature other than ourselves.

Pets also fulfil a basic human need for touch and companionship. When a dog comes to you for scratches and attention, they help to elevate our self-worth by displaying love and affection for us as their caregivers.

Regardless of where you are at in life, being a pet owner keeps us motivated with a sense of purpose and real connection to another being in this world. Pets teach us to not fret the little things, but to concentrate on the relationships that are important, and also the ones who love us consistently on a daily basis.

Want to learn more about the best ways to treat your pet?

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Nellie