Pets and Stress Management
1 - Sabika , pet of Alexa Kwartin ( Kwartin & Levine , LLP )
2 - Catfish , pet of Allen Harris ( Harris Divorce & Family Law )
3 - Bennie , pet of Gary Alembik ( Alembik & Alembik )
4 - Lennon , pet of Doug Wessinger ( Cohen Pollock Merlin
Turner )
5 & 6 - Mille and Murphy , pets of Katie Ehrlich ( Kessler &
Solomiany )
ALYSSA MYERS Harris Divorce & Family Law Amyers @ harrisdivorcelaw . com
While 2020 was a year in which most of us experienced unprecedented levels of stress , both personally and professionally , our pets were able to enjoy unlimited time with their humans . Pet ownership is shown to help humans manage stress levels , which is beneficial to both our mental and physical wellbeing . Our pets certainly brought us much needed joy and companionship during the pandemic , but their presence likely improved our overall health , as well .
Stress starts in our brains but presents itself physiologicallyi . Chronic stress leads to a myriad of negative , long term physical effects on the body ii . During times of stress , our bodies produce the hormone , cortisol iii . Cortisol production is not limited to the traditional heightened anxiety that we usually associate with “ stress ”. Studies show that even loneliness can produce elevated levels of cortisol iv . Prolonged , elevated cortisol levels can eventually lead to chronic disease and health risks v . These long-term physiological effects can include depression , memory loss , heart disease , infertility , and high blood pressure vi . Likewise , studies show that prolonged stress may permanently alter our brains , leading to a higher risk of dementia or Alzheimer ’ s vii . Sustained high levels of cortisol are linked to an overall decrease in the volume of brain matter viii . However , the effects of elevated cortisol are not limited to long term damage . Daily cognitive functions such as short-term memory , language , and cognitive processing can also be negatively impacted ix ; thus , personal wellness and stress management should be a priority for attorneys .
Pet ownership can reduce stress in several ways . One such way is the requirement of a routine for feeding and exercising your pet . Pets with a daily routine are calmer , easier to train , and just generally more welladjusted . As with pets , humans also benefit from reduced stress levels when a daily routine is implemented . A routine reduces stress levels by removing decision making from one ’ s thought processes x . People who are prone to bouts of anxiety or depression particularly benefit from routines xi . However , it is not only the routine of pet ownership that is beneficial . Merely spending quiet time with your pet can lower cortisol levels , as well as blood pressure xii .
Another way pets may encourage healthy stress management , is through physical activity . Walking your dog or playing with your pet
30 February / March 2021