How Pets Support Your Mental Health

If you've ever come home after a stressful day navigating Atlanta traffic on I-85 to be greeted by a wagging tail or a purring cat, you know the immediate stress relief animals can provide. Pet ownership is on the rise across Metro Atlanta and Gwinnett County—and science is backing up what pet owners have always known: animals have powerfully positive effects on our mental health.

How Pets Improve Your Mood

Depression affects millions of Americans, and while treatment like medication and therapy are essential, pets can be a wonderful complement to your healing journey. Research shows that interacting with dogs—through walks at Yellow River Park, play sessions in your Lawrenceville backyard, or just good old belly rubs—can:

• Reduce stress, anxiety, and depression
• Ease loneliness and social isolation
• Lower blood pressure
• Elevate mood through increased oxytocin and dopamine

Cat owners report similarly positive impacts on their mental health. The feeling isn't just emotional—it's physical. Playing with pets triggers the release of "feel-good" hormones that genuinely improve your mood.

Pets Get You Moving

We know that exercise plays a crucial role in mental health. Dogs especially need daily exercise, which means you'll be moving too. Whether you're walking trails at Stone Mountain, exploring Lilburn City Park, or just taking laps around your Snellville neighborhood, that daily activity:

• Releases mood-boosting endorphins
• Establishes healthy routines
• Improves sleep quality
• Provides opportunities for social interaction with other pet owners

Understanding Different Animal Supports

Not all support animals are the same—here's what to know:

Service Dogs

Specially trained to perform specific tasks for people with disabilities. Psychiatric service dogs can provide comfort, protection, and assistance for people with various mental health conditions. They have full public access rights.

Therapy Dogs

Typically visit hospitals, schools, and nursing homes to provide comfort and companionship. You might encounter therapy dogs at local nursing homes in Gwinnett County or hospitals in the Atlanta area.

Emotional Support Animals (ESAs)

These companion animals provide emotional support through companionship. They can ease anxiety, alleviate loneliness, and help with phobias. To be considered an ESA, it must be prescribed by a mental health professional. ESAs have certain legal protections in housing situations.

Your Own Pet

Your dog, cat, or other pet doesn't need a special title to benefit your mental health. With basic training, regular care, love, and attention, any pet can provide years of mental health benefits.

Is a Pet Right for You?

While the benefits are significant, pet ownership isn't for everyone. Pets require:

• Time for daily care and attention
• Financial resources for food, vet care, and supplies
• Living situations that allow pets
• Physical ability to care for the animal's needs

If pet ownership isn't right for you now, you can still benefit from animal interaction. Consider:

• Volunteering at local animal shelters like Gwinnett County Animal Welfare
• Pet-sitting for friends or neighbors
• Visiting pet therapy programs
• Stopping by a cat café when you visit Atlanta

Pets as Part of Your Treatment Plan

At Next Step Psychiatry, Dr. Aneel Ursani and Fathima Chowdhury PA-C understand that mental health treatment takes many forms. While pets aren't a replacement for professional care, they can be a valuable part of your overall wellness plan.

If you're interested in discussing how animal companionship might fit into your mental health strategy, or if you have questions about emotional support animals, bring it up at your next appointment.