The benefits of pets for mental health when working from home

Many of us are working long hours at home and are not spending as much time out and about as we used to.

The positive effect that a pet can have on your mental health is astounding. There are simply too many benefits to list, so we've gathered our top reasons why having a pet is a great choice for your mental health while working from home.

An end to loneliness

Working long hours from home can feel very lonely. Without all the human contact we would normally get in the office we can often find ourselves feeling isolated. There are any people in the UK and further afield (particularly young professionals) who have relocated to environments more suited to social contact, such as co-living spaces in urban centres. However, many people are not in a position to relocate and so bringing company into their current living space is a logical solution.

However, with a pet at home you're likely to feel a lot less lonely. Although it can sometimes feel silly, many of us love to chat with our pets and having someone to talk to (even if they can't respond) can be hugely comforting. The physical affection that a pet can show us will often leave owners feeling loved instead of lonely.

A cue to head outdoors

For those who have a dog, or an animal who enjoys the outdoors, pets can act as a great cue to head outdoors and get some fresh air. Being outside and taking a walk can do wonders for mental health and break up the monotony of a day working from home.

Although the task of heading out for a walk on a rainy day may not seem appealing, often owners will return from their walks feeling calmer, more relaxed and more energized. No matter the weather, getting outside is great for us.

Caring for something else

Often, when we feel loneliness or anxiety, we tend to be focusing inwards, to our own worries and self-doubts. Moving our attention to the physical world around us can make us feel more grounded and more purposeful. Taking the time to care and love a pet will give us purpose.

Investing in your pet's well-being by giving them the best care you can will leave you feeling full of purpose. Make sure that you are giving your pet everything they need by choosing the perfect supplements and giving them all the nutrients and necessary supplementation they need. For example, there are various companies who can provide the necessary joint supplements for dogs, who may have more joint problems than others. Pets rely on us and this responsibility can do wonders to improve mental health.

Support with anxiety

The act of petting an animal we love has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety. Not only do our pets love the attention and fussing, but devoting our love and attention to our pets can help reduce anxiety. If you have a pet at home with you at the moment, this is your cue to go and give them a fuss.

Motivation and routine

Pets are a source of motivation for their owners simply because they rely on us so heavily. Without a pet, day-to-day life working from home may seem difficult, struggling to find routine and motivation. When we have a furry friend relying on us, we have to keep good routines and find motivation to get up and be ready for the day ahead, every single day, for their sake as well as our own.

Keep up with the top stories from Reader’s Digest by subscribing to our weekly newsletter.