World Health Day, celebrated on April 7th, was created by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1948 with the aim of raising awareness and promoting health in people's lives and the importance it has on their quality of life.
Initially, health was defined simply as the absence of biological diseases; however, after the 1950s, this concept came to be defined as "a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being , and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity."
In this context, we decided to offer a suggestion that has been gaining increasing relevance in research and has proven to bring several health benefits at all levels: having a pet .
We therefore briefly list some of the results from various studies on the influence of pets on the health and quality of life of their caregivers:
- They reduce loneliness – for those who live or spend a lot of time alone, they are great company;
- They reduce anxiety and/or depressive symptoms – promoting increased levels of serotonin and dopamine (neurotransmitters associated with pleasure) and decreased levels of cortisol (the stress hormone);
- They give purpose to the days – they require care and pampering, making their caregivers feel important and needed in their lives;
- They promote routines – from hygiene care to daily walks;
- They increase self-confidence and self-esteem – they make people feel loved, valued and accepted, without judgment;
- They promote a better immune system – animals spend a lot of time outdoors and in contact with microorganisms that boost our immunity;
- They promote physical exercise - whether through playtime or the number of times they need to go for walks, thus also providing more time outdoors;
- They promote greater socialization – whether with other people they meet on walks with their animals, or simply through interactions with passersby who want to get to know them, for example;
- They teach empathy and a sense of responsibility – especially in the case of children who are still learning social skills.
- It promotes family interaction – for example, playing games and family outings.
In short, the therapeutic value of the relationship with animals is increasingly recognized and valued, and there are even therapies that use animals.
However, it is important to remember that these relationships should be bidirectional, meaning we should focus equally on the well-being, comfort, and health of the animals, providing them with all the necessary conditions and care, and reciprocating with the same measure of love.
Dr. Telma Gomes - Therapy and Mental Health Unit
