The Connection between Mental Health and Animal Welfare

The Connection Between Mental Health and Animal Welfare

Mental health and animal welfare are two issues that have gained increased attention in recent times. While the former refers to an individual’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being, the latter relates to the treatment and protection of animals. Interestingly, the two issues are closely intertwined and have been shown to have a significant connection. In this blog article, we explore the connection between mental health and animal welfare and the impact it has on individuals.

Improved Mental Health through Animal Welfare

Studies have shown that interacting with animals can have a positive impact on an individual’s mental health. In particular, animal-assisted interventions (AAI) have been shown to offer therapeutic benefits to individuals with mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD. AAIs involve exposing individuals to animals in a controlled environment, with the aim of improving their social and emotional well-being.

For instance, research has shown that spending time with dogs can reduce stress levels, lower blood pressure, and alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. Similarly, horse-assisted therapy has been shown to improve the emotional regulation, self-esteem, and social skills of individuals with various mental health conditions. The mere presence of animals has also been associated with increased levels of oxytocin in the brain, a hormone that facilitates bonding and social connection.

Better Animal Welfare through Mental Health Advocacy

Conversely, improving mental health has a positive impact on animal welfare. Individuals with good mental health are more likely to treat animals with compassion and respect. They are also better equipped to identify and report cases of animal cruelty or neglect. In contrast, individuals with poor mental health may be more likely to engage in animal abuse or neglect.

For instance, research has shown that individuals with hoarding disorder may be more prone to animal hoarding, a condition where individuals collect and take in an excessive number of animals without proper care or resources. Mental health advocacy and awareness-raising campaigns have been shown to improve the relationship between humans and animals, resulting in better animal welfare outcomes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the connection between mental health and animal welfare cannot be overlooked. Research has shown that there is a two-way relationship between the two issues, with improvements in one area having a positive impact on the other. Animal-assisted interventions offer therapeutic benefits to individuals with mental health conditions, while mental health advocacy improves animal welfare outcomes. By recognizing and addressing this connection, we can create a better world for both humans and animals.

References:

1. Brelsford, V., Meints, K., Gee, N. R., & Pfeffer, K. (2017). Animal-assisted interventions in the classroom- a systematic review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 14(7), 669.

2. Hine, R., Williams, C., & Carson, K. (2018). The role of animal welfare in human mental health. Animal Welfare, 27(2), 179-188.

3. MacKay, T., Hathaway, E., & Monds-Watson, A. (2016). The human-pet bond: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Qualitative Health Research, 26(12), 1649-1665.

4. World Health Organization. (2014). Mental health: a state of well-being. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/features/factfiles/mental_health/en/