Scott Knight
The Jason Foundation
Dec. 4 is National Celebrate Shelter Pets Day. It is a day dedicated to honoring animals waiting in shelters for loving families. The day brings warmth and hope, creating a moment for people to pause and see how special these friends can be. Not only do these animals find homes, but they also bring joy, comfort, and, in many cases, help their new owners with mental health struggles such as PTSD and suicidal ideation.
Service animals can reduce suicidal ideation through emotional support, a sense of purpose, and trained tasks that interrupt distress. They provide companionship and a reason to live, while having the ability to interrupt symptoms of PTSD, such as nightmares or flashbacks, as well as physically intervene in a moment of crisis.
These animals serve as emotional anchors, providing stability and a sense of safety. Caring for these animals provides a strong sense of purpose and responsibility to their owners. Training the animals can help reduce panic attacks before they happen, reduce anxiety through physical touch, help wake up their owners from nightmares, alert others if their owner is incapable of doing so, and improve overall well-being.
According to a 2022 article by American Service Pets, animals have gained a lot of traction as a holistic accompaniment to treatment plans for those with mental illnesses. The simple act of caring for an animal’s day-to-day needs can be an effective distraction from overwhelming thoughts. Having something that depends on them for food, water, and exercise may help individuals overcome feelings that their life is insignificant. The article goes on to say that pet therapy draws on the connection between the animal and the owner because animals aren’t biased and can love us under any circumstances. The bond with the animal can also boost the owner’s self-esteem.
Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) involves interactions between individuals and trained animals. Dogs are highly valued for their loyalty and ability to provide emotional support. Cats are known for their purring sounds, which can help soothe anxiety and stress. Horses can provide a unique kind of therapy that can help people feel more connected to their emotions. Even rabbits and guinea pigs can be therapeutic, providing comfort and a sense of companionship.
The Jason Foundation is dedicated to the awareness and prevention of youth and young adult suicide by providing educational programs and resources to assist individuals in recognizing the warning signs and risk factors for at-risk individuals. Consult your physician or therapist to see if Animal-Assisted Therapy is an option for you or a loved one. To find the closest Jason Foundation Affiliate Office, visit JasonFoundation.com.
