May Is Mental Health Month – How Dogs Support Our Wellbeing
Man’s Best Friend Is Also a Mental Health Hero
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to reflect on the importance of emotional wellbeing and the many ways we can nurture it. While therapy, mindfulness, and self-care routines are important tools, there’s one furry solution that often goes underappreciated: dogs.
From lowering anxiety to easing loneliness, our canine companions do far more than wag their tails—they help heal hearts. Let’s explore how your dog might be boosting your mental health every single day.
1. The Science Behind the Smile
Studies have shown that spending time with dogs increases the production of oxytocin (the “love hormone”) and reduces levels of cortisol (the stress hormone). Just petting your pup for a few minutes can:
- Lower blood pressure
- Improve mood
- Calm anxiety
- Trigger feelings of joy and connection
Therapy dogs are even used in hospitals, nursing homes, and schools to help people cope with emotional stress.
2. Routine = Stability
Dogs thrive on routine—and in turn, they help us create structure in our lives. Daily walks, feeding times, and play sessions create consistency, which is especially helpful for people dealing with:
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
- PTSD
- ADHD
When your dog relies on you, you show up for them—even on tough days. That simple act of caring for another being can be incredibly grounding and empowering.
3. The Power of Presence
Dogs live in the moment. They don’t worry about tomorrow or regret yesterday. Being around that kind of energy can be healing, especially when you're feeling overwhelmed.
When you’re stressed, your dog might curl up next to you. When you’re excited, they’ll wag their tail with shared joy. That kind of unconditional love and presence is rare—and powerful.
4. Encouraging Movement and Fresh Air
Even if you're feeling down, your dog still needs a walk. Getting outside—even for just 10 minutes—can lift your mood, get your blood flowing, and expose you to sunshine (hello, Vitamin D!). Dogs motivate us to move, which is one of the most natural remedies for stress and anxiety.
5. Companionship That Fights Loneliness
Social isolation can take a serious toll on mental health. But with a dog around, you’re never truly alone. Dogs:
- Provide nonjudgmental companionship
- Offer a sense of purpose
- Can even lead to new human connections at dog parks or pet-friendly events
That tail wag at the end of a long day? Sometimes, it’s exactly what your heart needs.
6. Emotional Intuition
Dogs are incredibly in tune with human emotions. Many dog owners report that their pup knows when they’re sad or anxious and will respond with gentle nudges, cuddles, or quiet companionship. That kind of emotional empathy is hard to come by—even in humans.
Final Thoughts: Dogs Make Life Better
While they may not hold therapy licenses, dogs have an incredible ability to support our mental health—often without us even realizing it. This May, take a moment to appreciate your pup’s quiet superpowers. Whether it's a goofy grin, a snuggle on the couch, or the joy of a morning walk, dogs remind us that love, connection, and healing are always within reach.
So go ahead—give your pup an extra treat. They deserve it.
Next week’s post: Fun Backyard Agility Courses to Build This Spring