Paws of Comfort: How Pets are Helping Americans Manage Stress and Improve Mental Well-Being

As part of Mental Health Awareness Month in May, we are seeking submissions from readers on their strategies for coping with stress. Your insights could help others who are struggling with their mental health. To participate, send a photo of you and your pet to yourviews@oklahoman.com, along with a 250-word reflection on how your pet enhances your mental well-being. Please include your first and last name, city of residence, the name of your pet, and contact information for verification purposes. Selected photos and comments will be featured in an upcoming edition of Viewpoints throughout the month of May.

Recent research conducted by the American Psychiatric Association has shown that a majority of Americans believe that their pets play a significant role in their mental well-being. In fact, 86% of respondents credited their furry companions for helping them maintain a positive attitude. Pets were found to reduce stress and anxiety, offer unconditional love and support, provide companionship, and serve as calming presences in their owners’ lives.

With this in mind, we invite readers to share their experiences with us during Mental Health Awareness Month in May. Your insights could potentially help others who are struggling with their mental health. We encourage you to submit a photo of you and your pet along with a 250-word reflection on how your pet enhances your mental well-being. Please include your first and last name, city of residence, the name of your pet, and contact information for verification purposes.

Selected photos and comments will be featured in an upcoming edition of Viewpoints throughout the month of May.