A significant number of LGBTQ+ pet owners affirm that their animals have a favorable impact on their psychological well-being (here's the explanation)
In a groundbreaking study, it has been found that pets play a significant role in enhancing mental health, especially for members of the LGBTQ+ community [1]. For many, pets serve as vital emotional support members of their chosen families, offering comfort during challenging times such as anxiety, depression, and loneliness.
The research, conducted by Petgevity, reveals that an impressive 91% of LGBTQ+ pet owners in the UK agree that their pets contribute positively to their mental health [1]. Furthermore, 67% report that their pets help them cope with discrimination-related stress. This pronounced "pet effect" underscores the vital role pets play in fostering emotional well-being within LGBTQ+ populations.
Beyond the LGBTQ+ context, research confirms that interactions with pets release oxytocin, a hormone that promotes relaxation and bonding, which helps reduce stress and anxiety [2]. Animal-assisted therapies also facilitate emotional healing by providing unconditional support and promoting routines and responsibility, which are essential for maintaining mental health [3].
Pets also have biological benefits, helping to regulate stress. They lower cortisol levels, fostering calmness, which might have deeper health benefits including reduced cardiovascular risks and improved stress resilience [4].
The survey by Lily's Kitchen and 3Gem, reported by PinkNews, found that over nine out of ten (91%) LGBTQ+ pet parents in the UK believe their pets contribute positively to their mental health [1]. Moreover, over half (52%) of the surveyed LGBTQ+ pet parents revealed they feel closer to their pets than their family.
Max Hovey, a queer advocate and internet personality, stated he speaks to his cat more than his friends [5]. The survey did not specify the time frame or location of the research beyond being in the UK.
Pets can also help reduce loneliness, lower blood pressure, and make people feel happier [6]. They can even help after a long day at work or running errands, offering a comforting presence.
Two-thirds (67%) of LGBTQ+ pet parents said their pets had helped them through discrimination bias [1]. Over a third (37%) of the surveyed LGBTQ+ pet parents said their pets helped them make new friends or connections [1].
88% of the surveyed LGBTQ+ pet parents stated that their pet never judges them [1]. 89% of LGBTQ+ pet parents turn to their pets for comfort [1]. Having a pet can give individuals a sense of purpose, with 89% of the surveyed LGBTQ+ pet parents agreeing that their pet gives them a sense of purpose [1].
In conclusion, evidence from Petgevity's research and related studies highlights that pets are not just emotional companions but also important therapeutic supports that particularly help LGBTQ+ individuals manage discrimination and isolation, while animal interactions broadly promote mental health through hormonal, psychological, and behavioral pathways.
References:
[1] Petgevity. (n.d.). The Pet Effect: How Pets Improve Mental Health in the LGBTQ+ Community. Retrieved from https://www.petgevity.co.uk/blog/the-pet-effect-how-pets-improve-mental-health-in-the-lgbtq-community
[2] American Psychological Association. (2017). The Benefits of the Human-Animal Bond. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/topics/human-animal-bond
[3] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Animal-Assisted Therapy. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/animal-assisted-therapy/about/pac-20394622
[4] National Institute of Mental Health. (2020). Stress and Mental Health. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/stress/index.shtml
[5] PinkNews. (2021). LGBTQ+ people are turning to pets for emotional support during the pandemic. Retrieved from https://www.pinknews.co.uk/2021/04/29/lgbtq-people-turning-to-pets-emotional-support-during-pandemic/
[6] WebMD. (2020). How Pets Can Improve Your Mental Health. Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/balance/stress-management/features/how-pets-can-improve-your-mental-health
- Pets, including dogs and cats, play a significant role in enhancing mental health, particularly for members of the LGBTQ+ community, serving as emotional support during challenging times.
- According to Petgevity's research, an impressive 91% of LGBTQ+ pet owners in the UK agree that their pets contribute positively to their mental health, with 67% reporting that their pets help them cope with discrimination-related stress.
- Interactions with pets, such as dogs and cats, release oxytocin, a hormone that promotes relaxation and bonding, reducing stress and anxiety.
- Animal-assisted therapies provide unconditional support and promote routines and responsibility, which are essential for maintaining mental health.
- Pets, like dogs and cats, help regulate stress, lowering cortisol levels and fostering calmness, which might have deeper health benefits including reduced cardiovascular risks and improved stress resilience.
- In a survey by Lily's Kitchen and 3Gem, reported by PinkNews, over nine out of ten LGBTQ+ pet parents in the UK believed their pets contribute positively to their mental health, with over half feeling closer to their pets than their family.
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