If you struggle with your mental health, you are not alone. There are so many people out there with mental health issues, whether this is caused by trauma, stress, a certain life event, or just something that they have always had. The important thing is learning to get it under control and finding ways you can improve it and make it manageable. One of the best things you can do when it comes to helping your mental health, whether this is anxiety, or a fear of being in crowded places, is to get a dog. Dogs have many proven ways they can help and we have included a few below. Remember that if you do get a dog as an emotional support animal, you need to get your ESA (emotional support letter) as soon as possible.
They get you out of the house
One of the best things about having a dog is that they get you out of the house, even when you don’t feel like it. Dogs need to be walked twice a day, so this gives you two opportunities to get into the fresh air, get some exercise and get those endorphins going. Sitting inside just staring at the same four walls can cause your mental health to take a downturn so this is a good way to get out of the slump. You could go to a dog-friendly cafe with them, head to your local park, or visit a friend who has dogs. No matter what you do, just getting out is a real help.
They’ve been proven to lower cortisol levels
Research has found that dogs actually lower the level of cortisol (which is the stress hormone) in your body. Interacting with dogs such as playing with them and petting them can release Oxytocin which is the feel good hormone. A reduction in stress also leads to other health improvements such as a decrease in heart rate and a drop in your blood pressure which can make you feel calmer still. Take time to play and spend time with your dog each day, or when you are feeling down and you will notice such a difference.
They give you a sense of purpose
Having a dog gives you a sense of purpose and a reason for getting up when you otherwise might want to sit and do nothing all day. You have something that loves you and that you need to take care of, so it can really help you feel important and have a place in the world. Just having these small tasks to do to take care of your pet can help improve your mental health and give you something to do rather than sitting around.
These are just a few reasons that having a dog can improve your mental health. Whether you are looking to get a dog to help you out, or if you have one already and are curious about the benefits, you should now be more in the clear about just how amazing they are and what they can do. Do you have a dog for your mental health? How have you found it’s made a difference? Let us know in the comments below.
