Pets help with depression and anxiety
As a therapist in Chicago who specializes in anxiety and men’s issues, I’ve often had clients ask me if getting a pet might help ease their feelings of depression or anxiety. It’s a great question, and the short answer is: yes, pets can be incredibly helpful for mental health. But like most things in life, it’s a bit more nuanced than that. Let’s dive into how and why pets can make such a positive impact, and what you should consider before adopting one.
The Science Behind Pets and Mental Health
It’s not just a feel-good story—research backs up the idea that pets can benefit mental health. Studies show that spending time with animals can lower cortisol (a stress hormone), boost oxytocin (the “bonding” hormone), and even reduce blood pressure. Just petting a dog or cat for a few minutes can have a calming effect on your body.
Related: What to do when your pet dies?
For people living with depression, pets provide companionship, structure, and unconditional love. For those with anxiety, they can be grounding, offering a tangible sense of comfort during stressful moments. Pets, especially dogs, can also help you get out of the house and engage in physical activity, both of which are proven to improve mood and reduce anxiety.
Companionship: The Antidote to Loneliness
One of the toughest aspects of depression is the loneliness that often comes with it. Even in a big city like Chicago, where there’s always something happening, it’s easy to feel isolated. Pets are wonderful companions because they don’t judge, and they’re always there to greet you with excitement.
For many of my clients, their pets become a lifeline during tough times. Whether it’s a dog wagging its tail when you walk through the door or a cat curling up on your lap during a Netflix binge, pets remind you that you’re not alone. This sense of connection can be incredibly healing.
Structure and Routine
Depression can sap your energy and motivation, making it hard to stick to a daily routine. Owning a pet, particularly a dog, forces you to create a structure around their needs. Dogs need to be fed, walked, and cared for at regular intervals. Cats, while lower maintenance, still require attention and care.
This built-in routine can help you regain a sense of purpose. When you wake up knowing your furry friend depends on you, it’s often easier to get out of bed and face the day. Over time, this consistency can improve your overall well-being.
A Natural Stress Reliever
For those dealing with anxiety, pets can serve as natural stress relievers. There’s something incredibly soothing about the rhythmic sound of a cat purring or the feel of a dog’s fur under your hand. When anxiety spikes, grounding yourself in the present moment is crucial, and pets are excellent at helping with that.
Dogs, in particular, are also amazing social bridges. Taking your dog for a walk or to a park can lead to spontaneous interactions with other pet owners. This kind of casual socializing can be especially helpful for people who struggle with social anxiety but want to build connections.
The Chicago Perspective: Pets in Urban Living
Chicago is a pet-friendly city, with countless dog parks, pet-friendly apartments, and even businesses that welcome animals. However, urban pet ownership does come with its own challenges. If you’re thinking about adopting a pet, consider your living situation, work schedule, and budget.
Related: Grief counseling for pet loss
For apartment dwellers, cats or smaller dogs might be more manageable than large, high-energy breeds. If you work long hours, hiring a dog walker or arranging for pet daycare might be necessary. And don’t forget the financial aspect—pets come with ongoing expenses like food, grooming, and vet visits.
Is a Pet Right for You?
While pets can be amazing for mental health, they’re not a magical fix. If you’re considering adopting a pet, ask yourself these questions:
- Do you have the time and energy to care for a pet?
- Are you financially prepared for the costs?
- Do you genuinely enjoy spending time with animals?
If the answer is yes, then adopting a pet could be a wonderful step toward improving your mental health. But if you’re not ready for the responsibility, that’s okay too. There are other ways to experience the benefits of animals, like volunteering at a shelter or spending time with a friend’s pet.
Alternatives to Pet Ownership
If you love animals but can’t commit to owning one, consider other options. Chicago has plenty of shelters and rescues where you can volunteer. Spending just an hour a week walking dogs or playing with cats can give you the same mood-boosting benefits without the long-term responsibility.
Another idea is to foster a pet. This allows you to care for an animal temporarily, which can be a great way to test the waters of pet ownership.
Final Thoughts
Pets aren’t just cute—they’re often healing. For many people, the companionship, structure, and joy that pets bring can make a world of difference in managing depression and anxiety. However, owning a pet is a big commitment, and it’s important to make sure you’re ready for the responsibility.
If you’re struggling with your mental health and wondering if a pet might help, feel free to bring it up during a therapy session. Together, we can explore whether this step aligns with your goals and current lifestyle.
Sometimes, the best therapist has four legs, a wagging tail, and a way of making life feel a little less heavy.
