The rehabilitation process can be a long and tedious journey
that can be overcome only with the right support. Often these support can not
only come in the form of people, they can also come as pets! Did you know that
having a pet can help you recover quickly, and even in a healthier way?
According to a recent study, pets can help people with issues such as:
●
Anxiety -
people with anxiety were reported to experience comfort when presented
with pets. They reported lesser instances of panic attacks and physical
manifestations of anxiety in their day-to-day lives.
●
Developmental
Disabilities - people with developmental disabilities such as Autism have
difficulties in communication. The non-verbal comfort that pets bring help
individuals with Autism feel at ease.
●
Physical
Disabilities - people with physical disabilities may find themselves unable
to do certain tasks independently. Having a pet can help guide them through
walking, assist them in daily chores, and be a loyal companion to them.
●
Mental and
Emotional Issues - it seems like pets can understand the feelings that
people go through even without saying a word. It is also reported from a recent study that pets can help people recover
from mental and emotional instability.
●
Substance Abuse
- people who have gone through a phase of addiction may experience physical and
emotional symptoms of withdrawal. The presence of a pet serves as a healthy
distraction to kick the bad habits out of the way.
The companionship they bring and the comfort they provide in
one's presence can contribute to the healing process of a person recovering
from drug or alcohol addiction. How does a pet help in the rehabilitation
process? Let's find out the ways a furry friend can accompany you in your
battle against substance abuse.
How can pets help you in your recovery process?
Pets are great stress-relievers.
Pets are known to make funny antics even if they don't
actually mean it. There are luxury rehab facilities that even offer pet
therapy services. Pets can brighten someone's day without even trying, which
results to a reduction of stress levels to any owner. Often, people who are
undergoing the rehabilitation process may experience some stress trying to keep
away from bad habits. The stress relief that a pet can bring may serve as a
great way to alleviate the burden felt by their owners.
Pets can help you socialize.
Nothing comes close to a good topic such as talking about
pets. We often chuckle at the thought of funny stories of other's pets, and it is
often the center of the conversation. People feel light-hearted when they talk
about their furry (or non-furry) friends, because of their unique
characteristics. As a pet owner, you can finally join this conversation and
also meet others who can enjoy your stories about your pet.
Pets will get your physically fit.
Although not applicable to other pets, most furry friends
will eventually force you to go outdoors. This is especially true for dogs.
Dogs are known to be awesome walkers--they love walking outside and exploring
the great nature. This, in turn, will force you to go on walking trips with
your pet, making it a great opportunity to be physically active. Not only will
you be able to de-stress with nature, you'll also enjoy the company of your pet
while keeping your body healthy.
Pets can make you feel responsible.
A lot of people say that having a pet is similar to having
another "baby" in the household. This is because having one entails a
lot of responsibilities--you are tasked to give them food, shelter, and provide
them with the right veterinarian checkups in case the need arises. You may be
wondering--"how can this extra responsibility help me?" By having a
pet rely on you, the less you are likely to go astray and spend your resources
on a bad habit.
Pets will bring you joy.
Having a pet is like starting a new relationship. It is a
new connection that can be made, without any judgements--a pet won't judge you
because of who you have been. They are only concerned with who you are as an
owner, and they are always willing to forgive. Their innocence, candor, and
unintended humor can bring joy to any owner who wishes to be successful in the
rehabilitation process.
Although pets can be helpful, it is also important to know
that with the decision to have a pet comes a great responsibility. As you
consider this option, do proper research on what kind of pet is best for your
lifestyle. Also think about your home and how they will be able to be a part of
it. Having a
pet isn't just for yourself--it is a mutual benefit that involves you and your
new friend.