Pet Therapy and Teen Mental Health
The mental and emotional health benefits of petting and interacting with animals include decreased anxiety, improved relaxation, and elevated mood. For most people, the presence of an animal prompts the body to release serotonin, prolactin and oxytocin. These hormones generate a relaxation and stress-reducing response. This hormone release can lower symptoms of depression and sadness, helping support good mental health.
Early May, our students took a break from their studies to enjoy pizza and pooch time at our Robyne’s Nest house, with therapy dogs from the Good Shaphards Foundation. Because of the generosity our community, Robyne’s Nest is able to provide opportunities, such as this, for our students to experience and understand resources available in the community for their mental and physical well-being.