Did you know that having a pet can have a whole lot of positive effects on our mental health? For example, your pet will always be there for you, and won’t talk back – which is great when human relationships get complicated and you’re feeling lonely or isolated. Caring for a pet is also a great way to give you a sense of purpose, as they rely on you for everything.
Not to mention, a pet is a great stress-buster – they bring us joy and help us appreciate the simple things in life. They can encourage you to get out in the fresh air and get your body moving, and can help you establish healthy routines – which can really help you maintain good mental health. Your pet thinks you’re amazing, even if you’re not feeling that way yourself. If you feel lonely or isolated, your pet can be a great conversation starter with new people. While there are a lot of great reasons to have a pet, owning one isn’t for everyone. They’re a pretty big responsibility and are expensive to look after. The good news is you don’t need to own a pet to get the benefits they bring. You can always try: offering to walk or spend time with a pet that belongs to a friend or family member, volunteering at your local animal shelter, or offering to pet sit for your friends or family when they go on holiday. Bottom line - pets make excellent companions, they're also good for your mental health. However, if you are really struggling to look after yourself, then talk to a mental health professional before you take on caring for a pet. And on that note... Here are some of the many pets of KMH! 🐱🐶 |
ThoughtsCheck here periodically for updates from Kelly Mental Health staff.
Check out kellymagazine.ca for recent mental health articles and blog posts. This blog is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide personal support as an alternative to psychotherapy services. Please note that replies are viewable by the public, and we may take a few days to respond. If you require immediate assistance, please call us during business hours.
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