Doggy de-stress events are becoming increasingly popular at post secondary institutions everywhere and studies have confirmed the positive results that a fifteen-minute session can make in helping to decrease students’ stress levels. Let’s face it, student life can get pretty busy with work, school, social events, sports and other commitments. Therefore, there is an increased pressure felt by students to not only be successful in academics, but to also carry out a balanced healthy lifestyle. It is no wonder that mental health has become a top uprising issue in post-secondary students.
Image Source: Flickr
Image Source: Flickr
Increased awareness of mental health issues is shedding light on the high rates of depression, anxiety and stress in students. It has also allowed extensive research to be done on human-animal interactions (HAI), which indicate an overall positive effect on the mental and physical health of those who own pets. Furthermore, one particular article concluded that animal-assisted interventions have the potential to significantly reduce depressive symptoms in humans. So what if I told you that universities are using these studies to make it easier for students to have access to free, on-campus resources to help deal with some of these mental health issues, such as acute stress? And this is where our furry friends come in! Let’s be real here, what human on this planet wouldn’t love to cuddle up with a cute furry four-legged friend after a stressful day of classes and school? Schools have also been increasing frequency of puppy therapy sessions during exam periods as it is common for students to have the highest levels of stress during this particular time.
We have an animal that craves attention and students that love to give their attention to these animals; a perfect example of the scientific term mutualism, or in other words a “win-win” situation for both parties involved. This event continues to grow in popularity as it provides a calm, stress-free environment for students to relieve some of this stress and anxiety.
Although there is still a lot of stigma around mental illness, clubs around university campuses are starting to create a better environment for individuals so they feel like they are not alone dealing with it all. I would definitely urge each and every one of you reading this to at least try to experience a puppy de-stress session. It is amazing how fifteen minutes can really change your mood! Although the reality for many university students can be pretty harsh at times, you should always try to squeeze in some time to wind down and relax.
Check out UBC’s own Mental Health Awareness Club website for more information on how to access these events in the future.
Rashmeen
Video Source: https://youtu.be/4DMpm_6lhRg
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