London: A recent study by Aarhus University and King’s College London challenges the widespread belief that pets significantly improve mental health.
The research, published in Mental Health & Prevention, tracked over 6,000 UK participants during the COVID-19 pandemic, assessing levels of depression, anxiety, and loneliness. Contrary to popular assumptions, the study found that pet ownership did not improve mental health outcomes, with pet owners even reporting slightly worse mental health compared to non-owners.
The only notable benefit was a slight reduction in loneliness among people living alone with pets, particularly dogs and cats.
However, for those living with others, no significant impact on loneliness was observed. Lead researcher Professor Christine Parsons expressed surprise at the findings, which contradict the belief that pets are broadly beneficial for mental health.
The study emphasizes the importance of managing expectations around pet ownership, especially during stressful periods like a pandemic, while acknowledging that pets may provide companionship but are not a solution for mental health issues.
