From their visitation in hospital wings to their presence in therapy rooms and their stay at our homes, dogs are a mainstay of our lives, and it’s not without good reason: the benefits that dogs offer humans in terms of companionship, mental health, unconditional love, and stress relief are profound. These loyal companions offer more than just friendship; they provide significant mental health benefits that have been backed by scientific research. One such benefit, and one I am intimately familiar with, is the reduction of anxiety that our furry friends can provide. Here’s how they do it:

One of the most difficult tasks for individuals struggling with anxiety is maintaining a daily structure. It’s just so incredibly difficult to complete a routine when your mental health is suffering. Dogs naturally bring structure into their owners' lives. From going on daily walks to their feeding schedule, caring for a dog instills a sense of responsibility and routine. This daily structure can provide the much-needed stability that can be so beneficial to the owner’s mental health. Predictability decreases anxiety, and this sense of having a “schedule” is an essential benefit for someone suffering from anxiety.

As an added bonus, dog owners tend to be more active given the physical needs of their dogs, which increases endorphins and alleviates symptoms of depression and anxiety (HABRI, n.d.). The caveat to this is that it requires the owner’s participation and willingness to get out there and partake in activities that would be healthy for both themselves and their dog. But dogs are persuasive, and when you look into their loving eyes, how could you say no?

It is well known that anxiety often stems from overthinking........

© Psychology Today