Celebrate National Pet Month and mental health awareness month
May is a special month as it marks both National Pet Month and Mental Health Awareness Month. These two events highlight the importance of taking care of our pets and our mental health. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), one in five adults in the United States experience mental illness each year. Research has shown that interacting with pets can have a positive impact on mental health, making National Pet Month an ideal time to reflect on the benefits of pet ownership and mental health.
Pets can help reduce stress and anxiety
Research has shown that spending time with pets can reduce stress and anxiety. The act of petting a dog or cat can release feel-good hormones, such as oxytocin and serotonin, which can help lower stress levels. Pets can also provide a sense of calm and relaxation, helping to reduce anxiety and improve mood. For those struggling with mental health issues, pets can provide a comforting presence and a source of support.
Pets can increase socialization
Pets can also increase socialization and help individuals build connections with others. Owning a pet can give people a reason to get out of the house and interact with others, whether it’s at the dog park or on a walk around the neighborhood. Pets can help break down social barriers and provide an icebreaker for conversations. This can be particularly helpful for those struggling with social anxiety or isolation.
Pets can provide a sense of purpose
Taking care of a pet can give individuals a sense of purpose and responsibility. Pets require regular feeding, exercise, and attention, providing a structured routine and sense of accomplishment. This can be particularly helpful for individuals struggling with depression or other mental health issues that may affect their motivation and energy levels.
Here Are Some Ways To Celebrate National Pet Month While Focusing On Enhancing Your Mental Health.
Spend time with your pet. Just spending time with your pet can be a great way to improve your mental health and bond with your furry friend. Take your dog for a walk or hike in a nearby park or spend some time playing fetch in your backyard, or just interact with them in a playful way. Not only will this give you both some exercise and possibly fresh air, it can also help reduce stress, anxiety and depression by enjoying your surroundings and recognizing it is the little things in life that really matter.
Snuggle up and Practice mindfulness with your pet. Pets can be great mindfulness companions. Take a few moments to sit quietly with your pet and focus on their breathing, movements, and sounds. While you are snuggling and petting your furry companion paying attention to your pet can help you stay present in the moment. Staying in the moment can reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. Being present helps you practice a sense of self-control and acceptance. While you are sitting and relaxing with your best furry friend think of their ability to accept and shake things off and soak in the peace of both of you living your best life in the moment together.
Volunteer with your pet. Volunteering with your pet can be a great way to celebrate National Pet Month and mental health awareness month by giving back to your community. Possibly look for a local organization that allow pets to accompany their owners while volunteering. This is a great way to give back and remember what you give is returned tenfold. The feeling of helping someone else releases feel good hormones and provides a sense of purpose and confidence that cannot be matched through any other activity.
Try a new activity with your pet. Trying a new activity with your pet can be a great way to keep things fresh and exciting while presenting yourself with a fun challenge. Consider signing up for a dog-friendly yoga class or taking your cat for a walk on a leash. Maybe you can even take your pet on a trip somewhere. Trying something new can be a great way to bond with your pet and improve your mental health. Remember the challenge of trying something new, while having the benefit of support from furry friend will provide you the rewards surrounding the evolution of self.
Attend a pet-friendly event. National Pet Month is a great time to look for pet-friendly events in your community. Consider attending a pet parade, fundraiser, or adoption event. This can be a great way to socialize with your pet, meet other pet owners, and celebrate together the importance of pets in our lives.
National Pet Month and Mental Health Awareness Month are great opportunities to celebrate our furry companions and promote the benefits of pets for our mental health and wellbeing. By interacting and bonding with our pets in different ways, we can improve our mental health.
Maybe it is no coincidence that May Celebrates National Pet Month and Mental Health Awareness Month together. The interactive bond between pets and their owners provides a great source of comfort, companionship, and support, providing a natural way to help improve individual mental health and well-being.
If you or someone you know is suffering with mental health please contact us. We Are Here To Listen.
Wishing you joy and companionship
Dr. Julie and Sadie Quinn (sweet counsel)
