More than nine out of ten LGBTQ+ pet owners credit their pets for a positive impact on their mental health, with various reasons offered for this assertion.
New Study Highlights Mental Health Benefits of Pet Ownership for LGBTQ+ Individuals
A recent survey conducted by Lily's Kitchen and 3Gem, and reported by PinkNews, has revealed that pet ownership can have a significant positive impact on the mental health of LGBTQ+ individuals. The findings were discussed on Lily's Kitchen's miniseries Love and Pride, hosted by Max Hovey and Ginny Lemon from RuPaul's Drag Race UK.
The survey showed that over half (52%) of the LGBTQ+ pet parents surveyed feel closer to their pets than their family. This emotional bond is not only comforting but also provides a crucial source of support. In fact, 67% of the surveyed pet parents stated that their pets helped them through discrimination and bias.
Pets offer a sense of purpose and connection, with 89% of the surveyed LGBTQ+ pet parents affirming that having a pet gave them a sense of purpose. The companionship provided by pets can help alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation, a sentiment especially pronounced for trans people.
Interactions with pets stimulate the release of hormones like oxytocin, reducing stress and anxiety and promoting relaxation. Spending time with pets can help improve mental health, lower blood pressure, and even decrease levels of cortisol, a hormone related to stress.
The survey also found that over 91% of LGBTQ+ pet parents in the UK consider their pets as essential for their mental health. Pets can make people feel happier, reduce loneliness, and provide emotional resilience against stigma and discrimination.
In addition, pets can help their owners make new connections. Over a third (37%) of the surveyed LGBTQ+ pet parents said their pets helped them make new friends or connections. Max Hovey, a queer advocate and internet personality, even admitted that he speaks to his cat more than his friends.
However, it's important to note that some LGBTQ+ individuals may face barriers and mistrust in accessing veterinary care. This can impact their ability to maintain pet health and fully benefit from pet companionship.
In conclusion, owning pets, specifically dogs and cats, can offer profound mental health benefits to LGBTQ+ people. The companionship, emotional support, and unconditional love provided by pets can improve overall psychological well-being and help LGBTQ+ individuals cope with stigma and discrimination.
[1] Lily's Kitchen and 3Gem Survey, Reported by PinkNews [2] Barriers to Veterinary Care for LGBTQ+ Individuals [3] The Impact of Pets on Mental Health [4] Oxytocin and Stress Reduction [5] The Benefits of Pet Ownership for Marginalized Groups
