The start of college is a big step for young people as they become more independent. A lot of students feel like college is their second home, where they can make the best moments of their lives. This will, however, be the hardest thing for many of them they have ever had to deal with.
College is often the first time someone has more space from their parents, so there is a lot that the student has to deal with. They have to find classes, make new friends, join new clubs, do schoolwork, and (for some) find work. On the other hand, it's also possible to not be able to make new friends, be too busy with work or school, or not be active or go out much. These things can really ruin a student's mood and even make the school a dangerous place to be, which can lead to a lot of mental illnesses. The good news is that it is possible to fix the situation, and we will advise you on how to do that.
Why So Many College Students Are Struggling and What Can Help
Every college has a big problem with mental health. There are many issues that a lot of college students have, such as anxiety disorders, sadness, panic disorders, PTSD, and many more. Still, a lot of kids don't get the help they need. 96,000 students answered the poll from the National Center on Safe and Supportive Learning Environments. Out of these 96,000 students, 44% said they were depressed, 37% said they were anxious, and 15% said they had seriously thought about or been thinking about committing suicide. That doesn't count the kids who don't want to get help.
Getting a Pet as a Solution
Getting a pet is a great self-care option for students. People have always known that having pets can help them feel better. Cats and dogs can help people deal with their feelings in many ways, which is good for both the person and the pet. The latter can be a great stress reliever. For example, a student can switch their focus from routine academic tasks to learning more about their pet with a cat DNA kit.
Why Pets Make College Life Better
When students encounter difficulties, there are several resources available to them to help them overcome them. Getting a pet, going to therapy, or taking medicine as directed are all ways to do this. Here is how that works with a pet.
#1 — Stress Reduction and Enhanced Mental Well-Being
College students experience high levels of stress and anxiety. Between juggling academic pressures, financial concerns, and social adjustments, mental health can often take a backseat. Studies have shown that interacting with pets releases endorphins, those feel-good chemicals in the brain that promote relaxation and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. Simply petting a cat, walking a dog, or watching fish swim can have a calming effect, providing a much-needed break from the pressures of college life. Having a pet offers a consistent source of comfort and emotional support, helping students cope with challenging situations and maintain a more balanced emotional state.
#2 — Promoting Routine and Responsibility
Going to college brings a great deal of changes, especially in the capacity of handling personal responsibilities. This for many students comes as a shock as they are now on their own to arrange their own schedule, their money, and take care of their general well-being. Pet ownership adds another responsibility in the lives of students by enabling a particular period and schedule of feeding, brushing, and exercise of the animal. The above-structured routine can help in establishing discipline and organization which are vital in one’s academics. Owning a pet just as any other animal also gives one an opportunity to learn the value of compassion, tolerance, and the need to respect other creatures’ rights of needs.
#3 — Enhancing Academic Performance and Focus
Believe it or not, having a pet can actually boost academic performance. By reducing stress and anxiety, pets create a more conducive learning environment. The presence of a calming companion can help students focus on their studies and improve their concentration. Taking short breaks to interact with a pet can also help to refresh the mind and prevent burnout. Furthermore, the responsibility of caring for a pet can instill a sense of purpose and motivation, which can translate into a stronger commitment to academic goals.
It Is the Right Time to Get a Pet
Everyone in school or college should put getting a pet on their list of things to do. You and your pet can learn a lot from each other, and the bond between them is good for both of you. But you have to do a lot of things before you can adopt one. You should also make sure the pet is well cared for, both physically and mentally.
