A Healing Connection: How Pets Can be a Source of Comfort for HSPs with Anxiety
Ivy Griffin
As a Highly Sensitive Person, it is common to find yourself overwhelmed by everyday experiences in our highly stimulating and demanding world. While your empathic nature allows you to connect deeply with others, it also makes you susceptible to anxiety and emotional overload. However, there’s a furry four-legged (or scaly, feathered, winged, finned) companion you can always turn to - your pet. Our pets offer much more than just companionship; they can be a source of comfort and healing for HSPs struggling with anxiety. If you’re an HSP with a pet you adore or an HSP considering bringing a pet into your life, this blog is for you!
Our pets, with their unconditional love and calming presence, can be incredibly supportive for our mental well-being as highly sensitive people. Here are some of the ways our adorable creatures can soothe anxiety and help us HSPs navigate our sensitive natures:
Unconditional Acceptance: Pets offer non-judgemental companionship, accepting you exactly as you are. This unconditional love can create a sense of safety and security, reducing feelings of vulnerability and anxiety.
Physical Contact: The simple act of petting a dog or stroking a cat triggers the release of oxytocin, a hormone that promotes feelings of relaxation and bonding. Physical contact with pets can help you regulate your emotions and reduce stress levels.
Mindfulness through Play: Engaging in playtime with pets can be a form of mindfulness for HSPs. Focusing on the present moment, whether it’s throwing a ball for your dog or playing with a feather toy for your cat, helps divert attention from stressful thoughts.
Routine & Structure: HSPs can benefit from the daily routine that comes with caring for a pet. Having a set schedule for feeding, grooming, and playtime can bring stability and a sense of purpose to your life.
Reduced Loneliness: For HSPs who may feel lonely as a result of their sensitivity not always being understood by others, pets can provide constant companionship. Cultivating a connection with a pet can foster a sense of belonging.
Our pets are beings who deserve consistent care and attention to their needs. With all of the positive impacts pets can have on our lives, it’s important to note that there are also ways that pets can cause some additional stress. Think: paying for food & vet appointments, re-arranging our schedules to accommodate their needs, and dealing with challenging behaviors. It is extremely important that HSPs keep this in mind when deciding to bring a pet into their lives. Otherwise, having a pet can exacerbate anxiety rather than soothe it.
All that said, pets can offer a wellspring of comfort and healing for HSPs. The unconditional love, playfulness, and calming presence of a pet can soothe anxiety, provide stability, and create a haven of acceptance.
Lou Ursa, LMFT #140509
Thrive Therapy
916-287-3430
https://thrivetherapyandcounseling.com/kayla-lou-ursa