How Do Puppies Help with Emotional Support?
Here’s an excerpt from an article by Johns Hopkins.
Research has shown that simply petting a dog lowers the stress hormone cortisol , while the social interaction between people and their dogs actually increases levels of the feel-good hormone oxytocin (the same hormone that bonds mothers to babies).
In fact, an astonishing 84 percent of post-traumatic stress disorder patients paired with a service dog reported a significant reduction in symptoms, and 40 percent were able to decrease their medications, reported a recent survey.
In addition to lowering stress levels, here are some additional ways owning a puppy may help with emotional support:
- Companionship: Puppies provide constant companionship, which can alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation. Their presence can offer a sense of comfort and security.
- Unconditional Love: Puppies love unconditionally. They don’t judge, criticize, or hold grudges. This unwavering affection can boost your mood and self-esteem.
- Physical Touch: Petting, cuddling, and playing with puppies can be soothing and calming. Physical touch releases endorphins, which are natural mood elevators.
- Routine and Responsibility: Caring for a puppy can provide a sense of purpose and structure to your day. Having a routine and responsibilities can be beneficial for mental health, especially for those struggling with depression or anxiety.
- Encouraging Exercise: Puppies require regular exercise, which often means going for walks or playing outside. Physical activity is known to boost mood and energy levels.
- Distraction from Negative Thoughts: Puppies are curious and playful, which can be a welcome distraction from negative thoughts. Focusing on their needs and behaviors can help shift your attention away from worries.
- Social Interaction: Puppies can be great conversation starters and icebreakers, which can help initiate social interactions and reduce feelings of social anxiety or isolation.