Dr. Christie Mensch is an experienced psychiatrist who treats patients through the Wyandot Center in Kansas City. In this position, Dr. Christie Mensch helps patients with anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and depression. Many people have had success combatting depression and its symptoms through pet therapy.
Pets have the power to improve mental health in a number of ways. First, pets provide unconditional acceptance, and they teach us that we are worthy of loving. In addition, pets provide a calming, consistent presence.
In many situations, pets directly alter human behavior. For example, imagine coming home annoyed, angry, or upset. When a pet shows excitement and wants immediate attention, we let go of those negative emotions.
A number of researchers have documented the healing power of touch. Pets provide a constant source of touch, and petting a cat or dog has been shown to lower blood pressure while also increasing dopamine and serotonin levels.
Finally, pets provide individuals with a sense of responsibility, which is key to promoting mental health. By having ownership of a task, such as taking care of a dog, you get a boost to your self-esteem.
