Contrary to popular belief, owning a pet may not provide substantial mental health benefits for individuals with severe mental illness, according to a survey conducted by the Universi ty of York. The study revealed that living with a companion animal, such as a dog, cat, fish, or bird, did not significantly improve well-being or reduces symptoms of depression, anxiety, or loneliness for individuals with conditions like bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, compared to those without pets.
The researchers followed up on a previous survey conducted in 2021, which explored the relationship between animal ownership and mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Their findings challenge the notion that animals universally enhance mental health and well-being.
THE RESEARCH
In the survey involving 170 participants in the UK with severe mental illness, 81 reported owning at least one animal, with over 95% stating that their pets provided them with companionship, consistency, and love. Dogs and cats (pet) were the most commonly owned pets, aligning with general population trends. Most participants perceived a strong bond with their animals.
However, the study found no statistically significant improvements in mental health or feelings of loneliness among those with severe mental illness who owned animals, compared to those without pets.
In the 2021 survey, which included the same participant cohort, the researchers discovered that having an animal (pet) was associated with self-reported declines in mental health among individuals with severe mental illness. This decline may have been influenced by pandemic-related restrictions and the challenges of caring for pets during lockdowns.
Dr. Emily Shoesmith from the University of York’s Department of Health Sciences explained, “It is now increasingly assumed that companion animals are beneficial for all owners’ mental health in most or all circumstances, but this may not be the case.”
The researchers acknowledge that companion animals may still play a crucial role in the social network of individuals with severe mental illness. However, more research is needed to understand the complexities of this relationship, including the impact of different types of animals and external factors that can contribute to additional stress.
COMPLEX
Dr. Elena Ratschen, also from the University of York’s Department of Health Sciences, added, “The findings suggest that the nature of human-animal interactions is complex. While the bond between owners and animals was perceived as strong in this study and undoubtedly important in people’s lives, it may not necessarily improve symptoms of severe mental illness or alleviate feelings of loneliness in a highly disadvantaged population.”
The study, published in the CABI journal Human-Animal Interactions, calls for future research with larger sample sizes and the inclusion of a wider variety of animal species to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the animal-human bond in this context.
