One of the indicators of depression and anxiety disorders is a lack of motivation and loss of appetite. Besides feeling emotionally distressed, a person may also experience exhaustion and weariness. Many symptoms such as loss of appetite, insomnia, and fatigue are commonly observed in daily life.
For a person in this state, smiling, socializing with friends and family, or taking care of their appearance is naturally not easy.
Even when friends and family try to provide support, responding to their expectations, rejecting them without hurting their feelings, or expressing one’s emotions honestly can be difficult.
The use of pets in healthcare centers and nursing homes has become increasingly common in many countries. The presence of animals such as cats and dogs in hospital corridors serves a purpose – to improve patients' living conditions.
The use of animals in psychiatric clinics started later than in other medical fields, but this does not mean they are any less beneficial. On the contrary, animals have been observed to provide significant benefits in the fight against depression and anxiety disorders.
What is the reason for this? One key reason is the unconditional love that animals offer. It is harder to ignore the affection of a small animal than to reject the closeness of a loved one. Even the smallest gesture of love is usually reciprocated immediately by an animal.
Animals help relieve loneliness, which often accompanies many psychiatric conditions. A study found that Australian dog owners interact more socially with their neighbors. Additionally, individuals who own pets that require daily outdoor walks tend to be more socially and physically active. Did you know that simply petting an animal can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease?
Pet owners experience better sleep quality, lower risks of illness, less stress, and better overall fitness. Even people who keep fish in an aquarium tend to have a more harmonious lifestyle and develop better breathing habits.
The deep emotional bond between a human and an animal fosters responsibility, enhances empathy, and provides the opportunity to experience happiness for no particular reason.
Let me tell you something that pet owners already understand: Did you know that animals can sense when a person is sad, detect cancer at an early stage through scent, and even recognize depression and assist during panic attacks?
Welcoming an animal into your home and building a relationship with it is very important – not just for mental well-being, but also for understanding the simplest and purest form of unconditional love. Don’t neglect our beloved animal friends! If not for yourself, consider getting a pet for your children.
Hasan Durna
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