About the author: Cassandra Santiago is a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist. She has worked at the Human Services Center (HSC) for seven years. As the Director of Recreational Therapy, she promotes skills like social interaction and emotional well-being. Cassandra has also introduced animal-assisted therapy at HSC, featuring certified therapy rabbits, Jim, and Dwight, to help those in need.

Imagine walking through your front door after a long, exhausting day of homework, chores, or a tough shift at work weighing you down. Just when you think you can't take another step, a four-legged friend leaps toward you, tail wagging with pure joy. In that moment, everything changes. The stress melts away, and you are reminded of the simple happiness that comes from a loyal companion.

The relationship between humans and animals stretches back thousands of years. While dogs were among the first domesticated animals, cats also have a long history with humans. Ancient Egyptians respected cats, seeing them as protectors against pests and symbols of grace. Over time, various cultures have embraced different animals as companions, recognizing their ability to bring joy and comfort. Today, pets are not just animals but cherished family members that provide emotional support.

Research shows that spending time with pets can significantly improve mental health. Studies indicate that being around animals can reduce stress, anxiety, and loneliness. Animal therapy, involving trained animals that help people in need, has been prescribed by clinicians with increasing frequency in recent years. These programs provide emotional support and comfort during difficult times. Interacting with animals can help lower anxiety levels and make it easier for people to cope with their worries. Having a pet, especially a dog, also encourages physical activity. Dog owners are more likely to exercise regularly, contributing to improved mood and reduced stress.

To enhance your mental health, consider spending time with animals. Here are some great ways to do that:

1. Adopt or Foster a Pet: Bringing a pet into your home can provide companionship and a sense of purpose. If you can’t adopt, many shelters offer foster programs where you can care for a pet temporarily.
2. Volunteer at an Animal Shelter: Shelters always need volunteers to care for animals. Volunteering allows you to spend time with pets and connect with your community.
3. Take a Dog for a Walk: If you don’t have a pet, consider volunteering to walk dogs at a local shelter. This is a great way to get fresh air and exercise while helping animals.
4. Participate in Animal Therapy Programs: Many organizations offer therapy programs connecting trained animals with needy people. These interactions can be very comforting.
5. Read to Shelter Pets: Some shelters have programs where you can read to pets. This helps animals feel comfortable around people and provides a calming experience for you.
6. Join Community Events: Look for local pet-related events, such as dog parks or pet fairs. Engaging with others who love animals can help you feel connected and supported.

At HSC, we host a “Pet the Stress Away” day each year for staff and patients, allowing everyone to experience the joy and comfort that animals can bring. Local colleges often organize similar events, recognizing pets' positive impact on mental health.

Spending time with animals provides an emotional release that can be very healing. Simple actions like petting a dog or cuddling with a cat can trigger the release of oxytocin, often called the “bonding hormone.” This helps strengthen feelings of trust and connection. For many, these moments of affection offer a sense of being understood and needed, giving their lives more purpose. The bond between humans and animals is a powerful source of comfort and joy. Whether through adopting a pet, volunteering, or simply spending time with animals, the positive effects on our mental health are undeniable. So, next time you feel overwhelmed, remember that a four-legged friend might be the perfect remedy.

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The mission of the Human Services Center is to provide individuals with a mental health or substance use disorder or both with effective, individualized professional treatment, enabling them to achieve their highest level of personal independence in the most therapeutic environment.

The mission of the Division of Behavioral Health is to support quality clinical treatment, recovery supports, prevention and crisis services with integrity to obtain positive outcomes for individuals with behavioral health needs.  

To read previous editions of the Mental Health Memo visit https://dss.sd.gov/keyresources/news.aspx#mhmemo