A while back, I was considering getting a puppy. I had wonderful memories of my childhood companions and I knew that I would fall in love with the beautiful being I brought home. However, dogs are also a big responsibility, especially while they’re still growing. I already felt overwhelmed and feared that the added stress would be too much.
I went ahead and brought home a puppy anyway, and I couldn’t be happier with my decision. Potty training was frustrating and waking up early on Sunday mornings for puppy school was not easy. And yet, I gained so much from my dog and still do years later.
Studies have shown that getting a dog can have a positive impact on your mental health. Here are some of the reasons why.
Emotional Support and Companionship
What is it about dogs that melts people’s hearts? Many dog lovers will tell you it’s how the dog behaves towards them that makes them fall in love. A dog is loyal and provides unconditional love. This has a major impact on mental health.
Isolation and a lack of self-worth are both symptoms and triggers of depression and anxiety. The companionship of a dog alleviates both. A dog never makes you feel like you have to ‘earn’ their love. You begin to feel better about life, as the sense of connection you have with your dog causes your brain to release oxytocin.
This also contributes to a reduction in anxiety and stress levels. You may have more responsibility since you need to take care of your dog, but they are a grounding presence, helping you feel safe even when everything else seems overwhelming.
Physical Activity and Mental Health
Taking care of a dog has indirect mental health benefits, too. In addition to the emotional support they provide, they also have requirements that are good for general wellbeing.
Dogs require regular walks and playtime. By taking them out regularly and spending time playing with them, you begin to do more physical activity. Many studies have shown that physical activity is incredibly beneficial to mental health and wellness. It reduces symptoms of depression anxiety, improves one’s mood, and boosts overall well-being.
Routine is another important aspect that is often necessary for good mental health. Finding the motivation to implement a routine for yourself is tough when struggling with your mental health. However, with a dog, a routine is non-negotiable. You need to feed, walk, and groom them regularly. Routine helps you feel grounded and more secure.
Social Interaction
Having a dog is great for alleviating a sense of isolation. But it is not just their companionship that achieves this. Dogs give many people an opening to meet new people and make friends, even for those who suffer with social anxiety.
When a person with a dog meets another dog owner, the conversation has a natural starting point. Your dog is like a safety blanket in this scenario, offering you a way of interacting that does not come with the stress often associated with meeting strangers.
Furthermore, when you meet other dog owners in a public park or at an event, you do not have to worry about the practicalities of a friendship. You can keep it casual if you prefer, which is often a concern for those who struggle to navigate social situations.
Should You Get a Dog?
When I got my puppy, I was having a hard time with my mental health. My concerns about the increased responsibility were valid, but his presence has had a net positive impact on my life. However, does this mean you should get a dog if you are struggling with mental health issues?
While dogs can improve a person’s mental health, they should not be seen as a way to treat mental illness. They are indeed a responsibility, and in cases of severe mental illness, this can be overwhelming. As such, it is crucial to take an honest accounting of how you are managing before committing to getting a dog.
You should also know about the challenges of taking care of a dog before considering it. After all, without a clear idea of what will be required of you, you may underestimate the responsibility.
Here are a few things to consider:
Increased Responsibility:
The increased responsibility is good for some people struggling with their mental health. But this is not true for everyone. If your mental health struggles are closely connected to a sense of having too much responsibility, taking on more might not be the best idea. That said, the responsibilities of owning a dog can be a good contrast to the other responsibilities in your life – they are easier to quantify and your dog will never judge you for small mistakes.
Financial Considerations:
If you’re struggling with mental health, your finances may be suffering too. Financial stress also plays its own part in triggering or exacerbating mental health issues. Consider the financial requirements of owning a dog. You will need to work food, vet bills and/or pet insurance, toys, treats, and other paraphernalia into your budget.
Lifestyle Challenges:
Finally, the lifestyle you live may not be best suited to dog ownership. For example, if you don’t have the space in your home or time in your day to take care of them, it is not a good idea to commit to getting a dog.
Conclusion
Having a dog is good for your mental health… to a degree. If you’re struggling with mental health issues but are managing to keep your head above water, a dog can offer great support and companionship. However, if you feel like you are drowning, it is worth waiting until you are further along in your treatment before committing.
