Pets are a greater source of comfort than humans

Pets are the emotional crutch of modern life

A recent international study found that many people prefer to spend time with their pets over their spouse, family, or friends after a stressful or difficult day. In a survey of more than 30,000 people in 20 countries, including the United Kingdom, 65% of respondents said they find it more comforting to be around pets than people. The overall average was 58%.

Unconditional support from pets

This is likely due to the fact that pets don't judge or give advice, but offer unconditional love and support. In fact, nearly 80% of pet owners say their pet reminds them to take breaks from their daily routine, and more than half say this effect is routine. Additionally, nearly a quarter of people find talking to their pets useful for expressing worries.

The Science: Stress Relief and Emotional Stability

Various studies have shown that pet companionship is effective for stress relief and emotional stability. Researchers at Washington State University in the US reported that spending as little as 10 minutes with a pet significantly reduced levels of the stress hormone cortisol121519. Physical contact and play with pets has also been shown to increase the release of positive neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin, which can boost mood and reduce feelings of depression14.

The role of pets in social isolation

The emotional benefits of pets are particularly strong for older adults, single-person households, and socially isolated people who lack a social support network. Pets can provide important companionship that can reduce loneliness and energize daily life1617.

Responsibilities and Limitations of Pet Ownership

However, owning a pet is a responsibility and a financial commitment that requires preparation. For people with serious mental illness, research suggests that pets may not provide enough emotional support20, so you should carefully consider your situation and circumstances before adopting a pet.

A recent international study found that many people prefer to spend time with their pets than with family and friends when they are stressed.

In a survey of 30,000 people in 20 countries, including the United Kingdom, pets were ranked as a major source of emotional support, along with spouses, children, family, and friends.

In the UK, 65% of pet owners would rather be with their pet than a human after a hard day, compared to 58% across the 20 countries.

80% said their pet reminded them to take a break from their daily routine, and half said this was routine.

About 25% said talking to their pet helped them express their worries.

Experts explained that they find it comforting that pets don't judge or interrupt their owners and don't push advice.

FAQ: Emotional comfort from pets, why is it effective?

Q1. Why are pets more comforting than people?

Pets don't judge their owners and show them unconditional affection and attention. This can provide emotional comfort without the conflict or strain of human relationships17.

Q2. Does pet companionship really help relieve stress?

Several studies have confirmed the psychological benefits of pet companionship, including a decrease in stress hormone (cortisol) levels after just 10 minutes of pet companionship121519.

Q3. Does pet companionship help with depression or anxiety?

Physical contact and play with pets can help boost the release of positive neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin, which can help improve mood and emotional stability14.

Q4. Do the benefits of pets apply to everyone?

The emotional benefits of pets are greater in people who lack social support networks, especially the elderly and socially isolated groups who live alone16. However, the benefits may be limited in people with serious mental illness20.

Q5. Are there any caveats to owning a pet?

Owning a pet is a responsibility and a financial commitment that requires preparation and careful consideration20.

#Pet benefits

#Emotional stability

#stressrelief

#Environmentalist column

#psychologicalsupport

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