Dog owners understand that a couple of benefits of having a dog are that it helps decrease your stress level and it can help you get over a bad day or time in your life. People with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can especially benefit from having a dog as a pet. Military veterans very commonly have symptoms of PTSD, but other individuals who have experienced traumatic events can experience it as well. Using dogs as a therapy tool is one way to help support these victims.
PTSD Symptoms
There are numerous symptoms of PTSD and it can affect an individual’s entire life. A big part of it is re-experiencing the trauma through flashbacks, disturbing recollections, and nightmares. Many individuals have problems sleeping and become numb to emotional situations. Other symptoms may include behavioral inhibition, regression, alcohol or drug abuse, hyper vigilance, memory avoidance, and altered cognitive function.
Benefits of Owning a Dog
Having a dog results in a number of positive benefits for both you and your family. Here are just some of the advantages of owning a dog:
- Companionship
- High energy and fun
- Help in social situations
- Can be trained to follow orders
- Help you feel and show love
How Dogs Can Help with PTSD
Dogs can help individuals with PTSD in a number of ways. Just providing emotional support is comforting for many people. Dogs also help those who have trouble in social situations. It is easier to be in groups of people when you have a dog because most people feel comfortable approaching dogs and it is a good conversation starter.
There is even research that shows that bonding with dogs has important biological effects. These bonds can increase the levels of oxytocin, which is a hormone that can help improve trust, overcome paranoia, and interpret facial expressions. There are a number of ways to help combat PTSD and owning a dog can be one of the best ways for those who like animals.