In recent years, universities have implemented measures to try to help students with their mental health. Therapy dogs and animals have been an idea used in universities across the country to help fight mental health battles and raise awareness for how to cope.
Universities would send out emails on the day of where and when the animals will be. Students can drop in to visit them for a couple of hours, go with their friends, or sit and do some readings while surrounded by dogs, cats and sometimes even rabbits.
For many students, moving away from home can be a difficult challenge, and leaving a pet behind can take a real toll on your daily routine. As you enter the university environment, many animals lovers will notice the lack of them surrounding you. This can add further distress and increase homesickness.
This is additionally why sites such as Borrowmydoggy are so popular for students. You can sign up to their website and then walk somebody’s dog for free, while getting some relaxation time. These are ways to ensure you do not miss your pets at home too much.
Academic Study into the Correlation Between Animals and Stress Relief
Multiple research papers have been conducted throughout different universities to assess the benefits of students interacting with animals.
Paws for Thought investigated how university students interacting with animals can have drastic effects on their mood and anxiety levels. This paper goes on to indicate how students are more impacted by mental health issues than the rest of the population. It also proves why AAT (animal-assisted therapy) can have a positive and necessary impact.
Positive attributes to this include the alleviation of anxiety and depression, with significantly lower levels of emotional and behavioural distress.
University can be a lonely place when you first arrive. You are thrown out of your normal daily routine and housed together with people that you don’t know. Having a day where you know you can sit with some animals, meet like-minded people, or just allow yourself a break to enjoy some animal bonding, can alleviate the stress of everyday life.
Get in contact with your University
If you’re at university and have not heard of AAT, or seen advertised days or afternoons where animal therapy is an option, do get in contact with your university. This is something that many will offer, especially when asked.
These events may even be occurring without your realisation. So make sure to get in contact with a member of staff so you don’t miss out on something that could be really beneficial to your mental health.
Animals provide a sense of security, an outlet for stress relief, and an excuse to get your hands on some adorable cuties. Being a student at University means your landlord doesn’t allow pets. That’s why the implementation of these schemes from universities are an extremely popular requirement.
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