PETS AND MENTAL ILLNESS BLOGGER:Being Sane Takes Too Much Work

In a small study, 60% of people with mental illness said their pets play a major role in managing their disease. One example is by keeping the individuals in a routine. Researcher Helen Brooks, Ph.D., of the University of Manchester in England says, "This suggests that pets can reduce stress and improve quality of life." A few studies on the relationship between health and pet ownership have found that having a pet can reduce anxiety, lower blood pressure and improve the odds of surviving a heart attack. In a report published by journal Circulation, the American Heart Association recommends for those seeking to reduce their risk of heart disease to own a pet. They particularly recommend a dog because dog owners are likely to be more physically active. The report also says that dog owners are less vulnerable to the effects of stress.