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In the Moment Mindful Awareness Tips You Can Use |
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Issue 15 March 2007 |
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Rob Williams Psychotherapy 202.330.5390
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In this issue: The Good, the Bad and the Furry “Anyone who has ever come home from a bad day at work to a tail-wagging, face-licking "hello" knows how easily pets can boost the spirit.” "Some of the research we've done has been amazing.
Very short interactions with an animal that's not even a pet can
significantly reduce a patient's anxiety and fear before a serious medical
procedure," said Sandra Barker, a professor of psychiatry and director
of the Center for Human-Animal Interaction at the Virginia Commonwealth
University's School of Medicine. Some studies of animals have found these positive
mental-health effects: ► More social contact. Having a dog means you have to get out of
the house to walk the dog, which puts you among other people. Also, dogs
provide an immediate conversation-starter and encourage socialization with
other people. A recent AKC survey found that almost half of women surveyed
said they'd talk to anyone with a cute puppy. ► Lowered anxiety. Research has shown that when people who have
been hospitalized for psychiatric illness spend time with therapy animals,
their anxiety and fear are reduced. ► Better quality of life. After brief interactions with dogs,
blood levels of the stress hormone cortisol go down. Even watching tropical
fish in a tank can provide a sense of relaxation. Pets also offer emotional
support, similar to that of a close friend. Pets don't just affect adults' mental health either --
children benefit greatly from these relationships as well. Some studies have
suggested that children with pets have higher self-esteem and lower levels of
fear than kids from pet-free homes. Like adults, children also enjoy having a
non-judgmental confidant they can share their worries with. As with other members of the family, however, emotional
interactions aren't always positive. There can be a downside to owning a pet,
too. The biggest downside of pet ownership is losing them. Their lifespan is
not as long as ours. Additionally, animals sometimes create stress in the
home. Noisy dogs or birds can cause problems with neighbors. Spraying cats
can destroy furniture. The habits of nocturnal rodents, such as hamsters, can
keep you and your family from getting a good night's sleep. Sometimes, one
family member doesn't want an animal but the others overrule that person,
causing friction. Also, the cost of pet ownership -- particularly if an
animal becomes ill -- can bring financial and emotional stress. But many of these negatives can be addressed. For
example, dogs can be trained to stop nuisance behaviors, such as barking or
digging. And if one family member doesn't want an animal, it's important to
make sure they don't get stuck with the responsibility of caring for that
pet, since that could increase resentment. The animal-human bond is a great boost for anyone's
mental health. Animals teach you to slow down, observe and listen. It's great
to experience their unconditional love. This information is not a tool for self-diagnosis or a substitute for professional care. Each person’s situation is unique. If you’re having a hard time using this or other tips, don’t hesitate to call me. We’ll find something that works for you. I’m here to help. Best Regards , Rob Williams, MSW, MBA, LGSW |
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Getting Help and Support from the Author: If you know of someone in need of help regarding a mental health issue, please give me a call. I’m here to help. 202.330.5390 or rob@aida-therapy.com
Rob Williams, MSW, MBA, LGSW 1555 202.330.5390 Copyright 2007 Rob Williams. All rights reserved. You are receiving this publication because either you, or someone close to you, stated that you wanted to receive it. I cover new topics every week. Feel free to make a suggestion if you’d like to learn about something in particular. To receive your own copy and receive news and resources, articles, trainings and other tools, please click here to subscribe to this newsletter. You are subscribed as To opt out of this newsletter, just Reply “unsubscribe” in the subject line or click here to unsubscribe. |
