Five Ways Pandemic Pets Helped Our Mental And Physical Health

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3. Pets Can Help Alleviate Depression

Pets can help battle depression as well as feelings of loneliness. The American Psychological Association reports that military members and veterans with PTSD who are given therapy dogs have significantly lower levels of depression than those without pets. They also report higher levels of life satisfaction and lower levels of isolation. If a pet can do that for a military veteran who has experienced things most people can’t imagine, just think of what they can do for civilians. Pets are just pure love. They look into your eyes and know when you’re struggling. They provide meaningful companionship that, along with other techniques, can be a powerful combatant of depression.