Mental health and dog therapy
It’s a serious topic and with one in six people in the UK suffering with a mental health condition at any one time, it’s one that cannot be ignored.
The cost to UK workplaces
Mental health is starting to get the public and media attention it so desperately needs to help educate and raise awareness in society. With anxiety and depression now thought to be responsible for almost half of working days lost in Britain due to health, it’s essential that workplaces act now to put measures in place to help promote health and wellbeing.
- 70 milliondays lost per year in the UK due to mental healthMental Health Foundation
- £45 billioncost of mental health to UK employers per yearDeloitte
- 28%of UK sick days are due to poor employee mental healthDeloitte
Why should dog therapy form part of your mental health strategy?
Dogs can’t help but generate smiles wherever they go, but the benefits they bring to people run so much deeper.
Dogs lower anxiety
Studies show that the simple act of stroking a dog releases a relaxation response and promotes the release of serotonin, dopamine and oxytocin, all hormones that can play a part in elevating mood and reducing anxiety.
Dogs reduce stress
Researchers found that levels of epinephrine, a hormone the body makes under stress, dropped by 17% when patients were visited by a dog. In addition, just 10 minutes with a dog can reduce levels of cortisol, the main hormone responsible for stress.
“The friendliest, most affectionate dogs I’ve had the pleasure of meeting. My happiness levels are through the roof and I couldn’t recommend them more!”
Dogs stimulate communication
People are more likely to initiate spontaneous conversations when in the presence of dogs, something that can be difficult for people struggling with mental health conditions. In addition, dogs can help to reduce resistance associated with therapy and can act as an ice breaker.
Dogs increase mental stimulation
In a study of patients with head injuries or chronic degenerative diseases, the presence of dogs helped assist in the recall of memories and sequencing of events.
Emotional support
Dogs can reduce the focus on negative emotions and promote feelings of safety and comfort.
Ready to bring these benefits to your workplace?
Our wellbeing events have been designed with your employees’ health in mind. Proven to destress, recharge and re-energise your teams.
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