Your Four-Legged Companion is More Important Than You Might Think
You probably already know that self-care is crucial to maintaining your sobriety. From therapy and support meetings to diet and exercise, many different aspects go into taking care of yourself during this essential journey. But a potentially critical piece of the puzzle that is often overlooked is pet ownership.
That’s right—owning a pet can actually be extremely beneficial for your recovery. Here are just a few ways that having a furry friend can help you on your journey to wellness.
Reduce Stress
One of the main reasons people relapse is because they feel overwhelmed by stress and anxiety. Animals can provide much-needed companionship and stress relief. Studies have shown that petting a cat or dog can lower blood pressure and heart rate, both of which can help reduce stress levels.
Increased Exercise
Regular exercise is an integral part of recovery, but it can be tough to find the motivation to get up and move when you’re not feeling your best. Dogs need to be walked, giving you the push you need to get up and be active, getting you some exercise too.
Better Mental Wellness
Pets can provide an incredible amount of companionship, which is essential for good mental health. They can also help you feel less isolated and lonely, two common struggles for people in recovery.
Sense of Purpose
When you’re in recovery, it can be easy to feel like your life doesn’t have much purpose or meaning. Pets can help by giving you something to focus on and care for. Caring for a pet can help you feel needed and loved, two important things for anyone in recovery.
Get Started on Your Recovery Journey at Tranquil Shores
So if you’re looking for a way to support your recovery, consider adopting a pet. They just might be the best thing for you.
At Tranquil Shores, we offer a variety of programs and services to help you on your journey to recovery. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve your goals and overcome substance use struggles.
