Many people around the world face the challenges and struggles of addiction. From alcohol to drugs, addiction can cause people to lose their jobs, their families, and even their lives. Unfortunately, addiction often is hard to overcome, despite the many support systems, such as rehab centers and counseling. However, there is one solution that many have found more helpful than ever – animals.
Animals are often seen as loyal and loving companions, and that’s exactly what they can be for those struggling with addiction. The companionship of animals has been proven to be beneficial for individuals on many levels, including when overcoming an addiction. Research suggests that spending time with a pet or animal can help to boost self-esteem, release positive hormones that can replace the negative ones that can be the result of addiction, and provide a distraction from one’s urge to use.
Animals can provide unconditional love and support during tough times, while also providing someone with the comfort of a companion, free of judgement. By providing comfort and stability, animals can be a source of trust when dissolving negative patterns associated with addiction. This type of relationship between the individual and the animal is known as a “therapeutic alliance” which serves to provide moral support, give a sense of responsibility, and in many cases, provide a way for individuals to live a little easier and calmer.
In addition to being a companion to those with addiction, animals can also help in more tangible ways such as providing emotional and physical stimulation. Studies have shown that animals can help reduce stress levels, which is especially beneficial for those suffering from addiction as stress can easily trigger the urge to use. Animals can also help to distract and focus attention away from negative thoughts and unhealthy patterns. Physically, animals can also provide physical exercise which can help to improve physical health concerns that can be associated with addiction.
For those looking for tools to help overcome addiction, animals can be considered an effective option. Having a pet or spending time with animals can provide a sense of comfort, stability, and support during a trying time, while also helping individuals to replace unhealthy habits with healthy ones. In the end, animals can be quite beneficial for individuals working to overcome addiction by providing an unconditional and nonjudgmental source of love and support.