Dog Therapy Enhances Good Mental Health For Adults

Just like teenagers, adults aging from 30 to 60 years old, also experience mental health problems like anxiety and depression. Mental health problems in adults may not be as prevalent like that of the teenager’s, but we should still not neglect it.

According to Marla W. Deibler, PsyD, “When we think a stressor is too great for us to manage, we feel overwhelmed,” Job unemployment, company issues, and family problems are among the life stressors that can affect an adult’s mental well-being. These stressors may lead to loneliness, loss of dignity and emotional distress which can later induce bad mental health condition like dementia and depression. So, finding ways to look after your overall health can help you feel better and avoid the triggers of disorders.

Aside from having an active lifestyle, undergoing dog therapy is one of the many ways to help you towards having good mental health along with eating right and getting enough rest.

Source: pixabay.com

What Is Dog Therapy?

Dog therapy is a type of alternative healing program not just for teenagers but also for adults experiencing mental health problems. It aims to provide pet involvement as a form of treatment administered by several health professionals. Dog therapy is the most convenient because therapy dogs are man’s best friend.

A dog has great potential in increasing social connection because they are less threatening compared to other medical treatments.  Hence, interacting with a friendly dog enhances adult’s social and emotional performance. Experts believe that they can lower stress level and can provide peace of mind to adult patients. For example, by simply stroking its fur would give you a feeling of easiness and calmness. Walking with your dog in the park would also relieve your worries. In essence, it protects adults from harnessing loneliness in life and fear of several things like death. Andrea Bonior, PhD, clinical psychologist explains that “Whether you suffer from seasonal affective disorder or not, the evidence is strong that getting outside just for a little bit can be very helpful.”

Dog therapy is also associated with other types of animal therapy like cats, horses, smallies, and birds to facilitate emotional well-being.

Source: flickr.com

The Power Of Dog Therapy

The relationship between animals and humans are as powerful as our relationship with our friends or family. If you feel like no one is with you, therapy dogs will never leave you alone. Engaging with therapeutic dogs may provide adults the support and comfort they needed as they walk through the journey of life.

Dogs offer companionship during the times of success and downfalls. They can be a huge source of motivation and encouragement to adults experiencing anxieties. They will teach you how to empathize and bring back the interpersonal skills you have lost because of your problems.

Besides that, if you feel like you don’t have a purpose in life; your dog would give you one by taking care of him. Dogs can be someone whom you can share a routine with. Dogs will give you the taste of fulfillment and build friendship you always hope for during your lonely years.

Source: dod.defend.gov

So, for adults who feel that they are at the edge of having bad mental health, seek help and own a therapeutic dog. If you are not confident about getting a medically prescribe remedies, they will help you directly in a good mental health environment. Dogs will give you the energy to deal with your stressors and overcome your anxieties.”Happy people do things differently. They make their emotional wellbeing a priority and practice daily and weekly habits that help them create joy, happiness and satisfaction in their lives,” says Dr. Chantal Gagnon Ph.D. LMHC.