How a pet can help your mental health

From loneliness to anxiety, having a pet can have a profoundly positive impact on your psyche in several ways, backed by both scientific research and anecdotal evidence. The unconditional love and affection that pets offer can be a help to your psyche.

A study by the American Psychiatric Association’s (APA) Healthy Minds Monthly Poll found that a majority stated that pets:

• Are true friends (63%)
• Help reduce stress and anxiety (69% of the respondents)
• Offer companionship (69%).
• Provide a calming presence (66%).
• Provide unconditional love and support (69%)

Reducing anxiety and stress while boosting mood

Having a pet can significantly benefit your psyche in a variety of ways, offering both emotional comfort and tangible mental health boosts. The act of petting a dog or cat, for instance, reduces cortisol levels—the hormone tied to stress—while increasing oxytocin, which promotes relaxation and bonding, effectively calming your nervous system within minutes. Studies have shown that even a few minutes with a pet can calm your nervous system, slow your heart rate, and ease tension. Pets can be a source of amusement and laughter, which can help to improve your mood. In addition, dog owners are more likely to get regular exercise by walking their dogs. Regular exercise has numerous physical and mental health benefits, including reduced stress, improved mood, and increased energy levels.

Combating loneliness

Beyond stress relief, pets combat loneliness by providing unwavering companionship and a sense of purpose, filling an emotional void with their affection and dependence on you for care. This relationship also elevates mood, as playful interactions or even watching their quirky behaviors release dopamine and serotonin, making it tough to stay down when a pet is vying for your attention. They offer unconditional affection and a sense of being needed, which can fill emotional gaps and make you feel less alone. For example, talking to a pet (even if they don’t talk back) can feel surprisingly grounding.

Encouraging routine and responsibility

Caring for a pet gives you structure—feeding them, walking them, or cleaning their space. The routine of caring for a pet can help you stay focused and organized. This sense of purpose can be a lifeline if you’re struggling with motivation or depression, pulling you out of your head and into the present. Pets can act as social catalysts as well. Walking a dog, for instance, often leads to chats with neighbors or other pet owners, subtly expanding your human interactions. Even introverts might find this low-pressure socializing uplifting.

Something to remember

This is not a one-size-fits-all solution. A pet won’t “fix” deep mental health issues alone—therapy or meds might still be needed. And if you’re not into animals, the effect might be muted. But for most, a pet’s simple, loyal presence is like a daily dose of psychological first aid. Also, be sure to learn more about a potential pet, such as its temperament, activity level, etc.