A new study suggests more could be done to value the human-animal bond in mental health therapies.
Dr. Froma Walsh of the Center for Family Health at the University of Chicago, did a comprehensive study, which appears in Family Process Institute Journal.
More than 63% of U.S. households, and over 75% with children, currently have at least one pet (APPMA National Pet Owners Survey, 2007–2008). The vast majority of pet owners regard their pets as their friends (95%) and/or family members (87%). Dogs are the most common pets, followed by cats, horses, and birds. Both children and adults enjoy a wide range of pets, including fish, gerbils, ferrets, turtles, rabbits, and farm animals. America’s cats and dogs are a pampered lot: all survey respondents reported that they give their pets a holiday present; 87% include their pets in holiday celebrations; 65% sing or dance for a pet; 52% percent prepare special meals for their pets; 53% take time off from work to care for a sick pet; and 44% percent take their pets to work, boosting morale and productivity Dr. Walsh also cites a broad foundation of evidence that pet ownership has been linked to positive physiological measures, such as lower blood pressure, serum triglycerides, and cholesterol levels. “In fact, the presence of a pet was found to be more effective than that of a spouse or friend in ameliorating the cardiovascular effects of stress.” Despite the evidence of the positive impact of pets on our lives, the study also found that the relationship between owner and pet is undervalued. She notes that people with a strong bond with pets are found “strange and deficit.” She says that people who love animals are not necessarily replacing human relationships with those with animals. In fact, studies indicate the opposite is true and she notes that people with pets are “highly attached to their mothers, siblings and friends.” She says people do not turn to pets because of failed interactions with humans. Dr. Walsh’s study details the long history of pets in working with persons with autism, developmental challenges and mental health issues like schizophrenia. Yet, she says, “there is a curious disconnect in the mental health field: animal-human bonds are unmentioned in most clinical training and research curricula despite the abundant evidence of their importance over the millennia.” 6 Responses to “Mental health experts undervalue pets”
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Hi,
As both a Mental Health professional and diagnosed Bi-Polar sufferer for over 12years, I have seen pets greatly help those who suffer from depression, all the usual mental health diagnosis, agoraphobic conditions, loneliness and isolation and also dual diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder.
Whilst a pet when young can be a lot of work house training, they provide much comfort to all people and doubly so if the person lives alone and have limited outside social contact/ social barriers to overcome.
We ourselves decided to get a cat again last year for the whole family and for company of our Mother whilst she was home alone during the day and can say he is now a most beloved member of the household.
What is it they say about Cats; Dogs have owners, Cats have slaves, well in this house at least, the slaves love our master very much.
Sincerely,
Stewart
You will not got any dispute from this pets’ corner about the mental health benefits of having pets.
I grow tired of those who suspect those who have pets are somehow avoiding human contact.
I think I have made more connections with people because of my involvement in the world of animals than I otherwise would.
I just wanted to say great! I was surfing on some different forums when I found this site. After spending some time on this blog I’ve come up with some ideas for a new weblog. I just thought I’d let you know
As a person who struggles with PTSD after a horrific domestic violence attack…I can assure you if it were not for my dog I would not be here..as depression almost took me…he is my light & smile everymorning…my pets..3cats& my dog…give me reason to be “needed” & loved and to love without worry…I get out more..feel better,meet people and feel happy…yes I have bad days…but a good lick from Eddie lets me get back to my happy place…thank God for animals….
And I bet they are just has happy being greeted by a person who clearly cares for them and gives them attention back.
lost my 18 year old cat “Bela” in April..I love people, yet no person will ever fill the void he left..my “heartlight”