Discussing The Importance Of Mental Health In Both You And Your Pets
Mental health is one of the most important aspects of living a good life. This applies to your pets as well. Studies have shown that mental health is directly connected to physical health. One’s physical health can affect their mental health and vice versa. Mental health is so important that there is an entire holiday dedicated to it! October 10th is celebrated as World Mental Health Day. This article will discuss what World Mental Health Day is, why it’s important, and how you can get involved.
What Is World Mental Health Day?
World Mental Health Day was founded on October 10th, 1992 by the World Federation For Mental Health (WFMH). The W.F.M.H. originally created this holiday to advocate for the improvement of mental health on a broad scale. Over the years, the themes and objectives of this holiday have become more specific and tailored to current events. This year (2023), World Mental Health Day focuses on spreading awareness about mental health.
Physical health is far more noticeable than mental health. If someone has poor mental health, it may be difficult to notice. This is especially true when it comes to our pets as they don’t have a voice to tell us how they’re feeling. That’s why it’s so important to know the warning signs of pets suffering from poor mental health.
Mental health
Signs Of Mental Health Problems In Pets
Most people don’t realize that our pets can suffer from mental illnesses or conditions similar to the way people do. This includes things like depression, separation anxiety, social anxiety, and noise anxiety. However, it can often be difficult to tell when your pet is experiencing mental health problems. Both dogs and cats are very good at hiding their pain and true emotions.
Here are some warning signs that your pet is experiencing some form of mental problem or distress. They include dramatic change in behavior, lethargic, change in energy or appetite, withdrawing and/or hiding. While these signs don’t necessarily mean your pet has poor mental health, they are cues to look for. If you notice any of these cues lasting for long periods of time, speak with your veterinarian about it. Don’t jump to conclusions until you get a professional diagnosis.
The Importance Of Mental Health In Pets
As previously mentioned, one’s mental health directly affects one’s physical health. If your pet has poor mental health, that will eventually bleed over into their physical health. This is especially apparent in stress, anxiety, and depression. Being mentally healthy is just as important as being physically healthy. We all want our pets to live a long, happy, and fulfilled life. The best way to do that, is to keep them as healthy as possible both physically and mentally.
A happy dog
How To Improve Your Pets’ Mental Health
One of the best ways to improve your pet’s mental health is to simply spend more time with them. For dogs, make it a point to take them for routine walks on a daily basis. This extra exercise and bonding experience will make them feel more accomplished and loved. For cats, take some time out of your day to play and/or interact with them on a daily basis. The extra stimulation will keep them occupied and remind them how much you love them.
Additionally, you can improve all of your pets mental health by creating a stress-free environment. Creating a calming and comfortable atmosphere in your home will undoubtedly reduce your pets anxiety and stress levels. Keep your home at a comfortable temperature year round, provide lots of comfy spots or beds for your pets to sleep on, and try to block out any outside distractions that could potentially upset your pets (close window curtains or put on background noise like tv or radio.
How You Can Observe The Holiday
You can observe this amazing awareness-based holiday by improving both you and your pets mental health. Everyday, do things for yourself and your pets that will benefit your overall mental health. Whether it’s taking a break from your busy day to play with your cat or going for a leisurely stroll with your dog. No matter what you do, it’s important to make time for yourself and your pets. Don’t put it off for later, make the time now to improve your mental health and your pet’s mental health.
A professional pet sitter
Hire A Pet Sitter Today!
Pets need regular stimulation to stay happy and mentally healthy. If you don’t have the time to regularly stimulate your pets, then consider hiring a professional pet sitter! Here at Stay At Home Pet Services, we offer quality pet sitting services at competitive prices. We have over 10 years of experience, our sitters are certified in pet first aid & CPR, and we love all pets as if they were our own.
We are located in Cincinnati, OH and service the following areas of East Walnut Hills, Hyde Park, Mt Lookout, Oakley, Norwood, Kennedy Heights, Pleasant Ridge, Tusculum, East End, Mariemont, Fairfax, Madisonville, Mt Washington, Dillonvale, Deer Park, Silverton, Kenwood, Madeira, Indian Hill, and Anderson Township. Click here to become a client today or give us a call at 513-706-7702.