Bipolar and pets: Is animal-assisted therapy efficient?
Pets have a positive effect on those with bipolar disorder, providing companionship, solace, and happiness.
Living with bipolar disorder presents unique challenges, including intense mood swings and difficulty maintaining stability. While traditional treatments are essential, there is growing recognition of the complementary role of animal-assisted therapy (AAT) in enhancing the well-being of individuals with bipolar disorder.
UNDERSTANDING BIPOLAR DISORDER
Bipolar disorder is characterised by alternating episodes of mania and depression, disrupting daily life and interpersonal relationships. The unpredictable nature of these mood swings necessitates holistic approaches to management.
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THE ROLE OF ANIMAL-ASSISTED THERAPY IN BIPOLAR
AAT involves interactions between individuals and trained animals, offering emotional, social, and cognitive benefits. For those with bipolar disorder, pets can provide stability, companionship, and purpose during manic and depressive episodes. As per information from Verywell Health, while dogs are the predominant choice for animal therapy, numerous other animals also excel as therapy companions. Virtually any animal has the potential to serve as a therapy animal. The American Veterinary Medical Association further explains that certain animal types are preferred due to their suitability for the specific services they offer.
BENEFITS DURING MANIC EPISODES
Pets offer a calming influence during manic episodes, helping to reduce agitation and channel excess energy into positive activities. Establishing routines around pet care can promote stability and regulate sleep patterns.
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BENEFITS DURING DEPRESSIVE EPISODES
The companionship of pets can alleviate feelings of loneliness and despair during depressive episodes. Caring for a pet provides a sense of purpose and motivation, enhancing mood and well-being.
SOCIAL CONNECTION AND SKILL-BUILDING
Pets facilitate social connection and skill-building, reducing social isolation and fostering friendships. Group AAT sessions provide opportunities for support and camaraderie among individuals with bipolar disorder.
EMOTIONAL AWARENESS AND REGULATION
Interacting with animals promotes emotional awareness and regulation, empowering individuals to manage mood fluctuations and cope with stressors. AAT offers a safe and non-threatening context for exploring emotions.
COMPLEMENTARY APPROACH TO TREATMENT
AAT is not a standalone treatment but complements existing therapies for bipolar disorder. A comprehensive treatment plan may include medication, psychotherapy, lifestyle modifications, and AAT tailored to individual needs.
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PROFESSIONAL GUIDANCE AND SAFETY
Trained professionals ensure the safety and well-being of participants and animals during AAT sessions. Regular monitoring and evaluation are essential to track progress and make adjustments as needed.
Pets have a profound impact on the lives of individuals with bipolar disorder, offering companionship, comfort, and joy. Through structured interventions such as animal-assisted therapy, individuals can harness the healing power of pets to cultivate resilience, enhance coping skills, and improve overall well-being.