Paws and Peace
How Pets and Therapy Together Support Student Mental Health
At Cal Poly, more students are turning to pets for emotional support. As highlighted in a recent Mustang News article, students are adopting or fostering animals to manage stress, cope with loneliness, and gain a sense of responsibility. For instance, one senior, studying child development, shared that her emotional support dog, Tulsi, played a crucial role in her mental health journey, stating, “Tulsi forced me to become more accountable for my own well-being.”
The benefits of pet ownership are well-documented. Interacting with pets can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, ease loneliness, encourage exercise, and improve overall health. However, while pets offer comfort and routine, they are not a substitute for professional mental health care. Therapy provides a structured environment to explore underlying issues, develop coping strategies, and build resilience. Combining pet companionship with therapy can offer a comprehensive approach to mental well-being.
For students considering therapy, Cal Poly’s Campus Health & Wellbeing offers resources to help manage stress and mental health challenges. Engaging in therapy can complement the emotional support provided by pets, offering tools to navigate academic pressures and personal growth.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember that seeking help is a sign of strength. Whether it’s the companionship of a pet or the guidance of a therapist, support is available. Consider reaching out to a mental health professional to explore strategies tailored to your needs.
