May 22, 2012 | Subscribe

MANAGE ANXIETY: Can a pet help?

A number of research studies have found that owning pets can reduce anxiety and even improve health. A loyal pet can provide much-needed affection and emotional support. If you have trouble with social anxiety, a pet can even help make social interactions easier for you by giving you something to talk about, providing support, and helping you meet other people who like animals.

I definitely think that companion animals can help ease anxiety. My dogs love me unconditionally, are refreshingly easy to please compared to people, and are comfortingly soft and warm. They also give me something to focus on other than myself, which can definitely help reduce anxiety.

Of course, they also sometimes drive me completely crazy...so I can also see how owning a pet isn't going to be an anxiety-buster for everyone. What do you think? Do you own a pet? Do you have an opinion on the mental health benefits of owning one?

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By KellieMontgomeryLMFT on Wed, 01-04-12, 10:24

Hi Vanessa,

BTW....I recently asked that the two posts above be deleted. I totally agree with you. I have 2 therapist friends who actually had their dogs go through training to become "therapy dogs" and sit with them in the office, visit hospitals and hang during therapy sessions with clients who need the security of a cuddle or something kind to stroke as they talk about difficult things. I have a cute male dog who sits with me during the day and comes over for a hug and kiss between naps. Studies have anxiety shown that a person's blood pressure can drop just by petting a dog. And there's something quite nice I gotta say about the love factor you get back.

Warmly,
Kellie Montgomery LMFT
If you would like additional support, you can reach me at the following link
http://online-counseling.supportgroups.com/index.php?_o=Bio&_m=bio&model...

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By TennisPlayer on Wed, 01-04-12, 11:04

Pets are great! My dog does things that make me laugh and he is always up for playing. If I am sad, he knows and will come over as if to say "are you okay?!" They are great companions.

"Each day make choices that your future self will be happy you did!"
"Choose long-term freedom over immediate comfort" Mindfulness Through Anxiety is a great book! www.MeditationOasis.com. If you would like me to pray for you,just pm me.

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