Challenging the effects of mental health disorders and engaging in effective healing can be complicated. Each person will have their journey to healthier, sustainable healing. At Avalon Malibu, each person is encouraged to find their journey to a healthy future through varied therapeutic approaches and personal engagement. For some, one of the options for sustainable healing can involve adopting pets for mental health benefits.
Deciding if a Pet Is Right for You
Not all people will necessarily respond the same way to taking on a pet, and the challenges of bringing home a pet can be difficult for some to overcome when exploring this option. Pets are a large responsibility, and those who are still struggling with the daily effects of mental health disorders and other stresses can find it difficult to take on the additional responsibilities necessary for bringing home an animal. Others may have housing restrictions or financial barriers that can make getting a pet a risky or unhealthy option for oneself or any potential pet.Â
Working with the professionals at Avalon Malibu to create a healthy homeostasis and baseline healthy coping skills is necessary before deciding if a person would like to consider pets for mental health and healing.Â
The Benefits of Pets for Mental Health
Knowing the potential healing benefits of pets for mental health is also necessary when deciding if it is an option that each person would like to pursue, and there are many positive benefits to bringing home a pet that can be truly transformative.Â
Pets for Mental Health and Emotional Support
A pet can provide unconditional love and emotional support when provided with proper care. This kind of camaraderie can challenge feelings of isolation and loneliness while adding a feeling of emotional comfort to daily life.Â
Focusing on the Present
Pets can also be instrumental in helping those overcoming mental health disorders to judge their progress and self in the present. It can be easy to linger on past mistakes, challenges, or stresses, which can impact feelings of anxiety, depression, and more. Having a positive relationship with a pet in the present can be a way to focus on who a person is now and their accomplishments in recovery as pets judge a person in the present, not on past mistakes.Â
Providing Structure
Adopting pets for mental health healing can also be important when creating a routine structure in daily life. Keeping regular mealtimes can ensure that a person gets out of bed and tends to a routine of care. Likewise, regular walks or playing with pets can also reduce anxiety while encouraging physical activity for further self-care.Â
Pets can be an amazing resource in recovery, complete with an array of benefits for those overcoming mental health disorders, stress, and more. At Avalon Malibu, we understand how impactful pets can be in recovery, as well as the risks and barriers that may affect how they can impact your life, and we are prepared to personalize your approach to healing to help you find the best path to a healthy and sustainable daily life. For information on our effective treatment programs, call us today at (844) 857-5992.
