Why the Human-Animal Bond Is Important for Your Mental Health from a Michigan Therapist

It was a rainy, lonely afternoon when Abbey’s dog jumped onto the couch, nudged her hand, and snuggled up against her. In that moment, Abbey felt a weight lifted off her shoulders—her anxiety eased, and she remembered that she was not alone. Moments like these show that the bond between humans and animals can play a powerful role in mental health. At Being Human Group, we value research that shows why connection matters, whether it be with humans or animals. In this post, we will dive into the science behind the human-animal bond, its mental health benefits, and ways to cultivate these connections!

So, What Is the Human-Animal Bond?

The human-animal bond is essentially the emotional and psychological connection between humans and animals. It is more than companionship—it is a relationship that is built on care, trust, and mutual affect.

This bond can take on many forms:

• Pets that live in our homes and routines.
• Therapy animals that provide comfort in settings such as hospitals, schools, and nursing
  homes.
• Emotional support and service animals, which help with mental or physical challenges.

This bond often manifests through our daily routines, nonverbal communication, and simple acts of care such as feeding, walking, grooming, or simply sitting together. These shared moments create an emotional rhythm that benefits both humans and animals!

What Does the Research Tell Us About the Human-Animal Bond?

• Reduced anxiety, depression, and stress: Spending time with pets can lower cortisol levels and boost mood.
• Decreased loneliness and improved emotional companionship: Animals offer consistent presence and nonjudgmental support.
• Benefits for healthy aging: Older adults who engage with pets report lower isolation, better mental health, and even improved cognitive function.

Even brief interactions (i.e., petting, playing, or simply observing an animal) can improve your overall well-being. While research continues to explore variables such as species, intensity of interaction, and accessibility, the evidence so far makes the case that animals matter to our mental health!

How Do Animals Support Mental Health?

• Emotional support and unconditional acceptance: Animals provide a steady presence that does not judge, critique, or impose expectations—an emotional safe space in a complicated world.
• Structure, purpose, and responsibility: Caring for an animal creates daily routines and a sense of purpose, which supports mental stability and personal growth.
• Social connection and reducing isolation: Animals act as social bridges, encouraging interaction with others in settings such as parks, therapy groups, or community programs.
• Physical Benefits: Walking a dog or engaging in play promotes movement, outdoor time, and reduced physiological stress.
• Coping with crisis and trauma: For those experiencing trauma or suicidal thoughts, animals can offer a comforting distraction, grounding presence, and immediate emotional relief.

What Are the Specialized Roles of Animals?

Animals also have targeted roles in mental health. Here are some of many:

• Therapy animals: Work in hospitals, schools, and nursing homes to support emotional well-being.
• Emotional support and service animals: Legally recognized companions that aid individuals with mental or physical challenges.
• Volunteering and animal-assisted interventions (AAI): Programs where people can engage with animals to benefit mental health, even without owning a pet.

What Are the Best Ways to Cultivate this Human-Animal Bond?

• For everyone: Volunteer at shelters, foster animals, or participate in therapy animal programs.
• For pet owners: Spend consistent, quality time with your pets. Ensure their well-being through proper care, attention, and enrichment.
• For organizations: Integrate animal-assisted programs ethically, with trained personnel and attention to both human and animal needs.

The Human-Animal Bond and Your Mental Health: Why Connection Matters

The human-animal bond reminds us that connection heals. Whether it be through a cat’s purr, a therapy dog’s visit, or volunteering at a local shelter, animals offer support in unique and meaningful ways. At Being Human Group, we recognize that fostering such connections strengthens mental well-being, nurtures dignity, and helps us live more fully. Make sure to explore opportunities to connect with animals, advocate for access to therapy programs, or simply pause to notice the comfort an animal can bring. Remember, being human means valuing relationships with other people and our animal companions!

Resources

1. Human Animal Bond Research Institute:
   https://habri.org/blog/top-5-benefits-of-the-human-animal-bond/ 
   https://habri.org/research/healthy-aging/mental-health/
2. National Alliance of Mental Illness:
   https://www.nami.org/blog-post/the-remarkable-human-animal-bond/