
Real stories that show how our virtual healthcare services change lives and strengthen your brand.
Webinars, guides and tools designed to keep you informed and help support health and wellbeing.
A collection of articles offering thought leadership, expert tips and practical advice to support healthier lives.
Explore real stories, expert advice, and practical tools. Everything you need to stay informed, inspired, and empowered to support health and wellbeing.
Let’s connect. We’re ready to explore how we can support your organisation’s health and wellbeing goals.
Get in touch to find out more about our services or ask any questions — we’re here to help.
Join us and be part of a team transforming virtual healthcare for people everywhere.
Whether you want to partner with us, ask a question, or explore career opportunities — we’re here to start the conversation.
Dr Colin Preece, our Head of Mental Health, writes…
In my house, there is a sense of excitement as we eagerly await the arrival of our new dog. The waiting has encouraged me to reflect on the importance of pets in my life, and I wanted to share some thoughts with you. To many people, pets can play a significant part in their lives, and many studies have shown a positive link between pet ownership and our mental health and overall well-being. Whether a loyal dog, a playful cat, or even a gentle rabbit, pets can offer emotional and psychological benefits that can enhance our lives in many ways. For those managing stress, anxiety, or depression, pets can be a source of comfort and stability.
1. Reduced Stress and Anxiety
Stress relief is one of the most significant mental health benefits of having a pet. Studies have shown that interacting with pets can lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress, and increase serotonin and dopamine levels, which help improve mood. Just spending a few minutes petting an animal can promote relaxation and lower heart rate and blood pressure, creating a calming effect.
2. Boosting Mood and Reducing Loneliness
Pets can provide unconditional love, companionship, and a sense of purpose. This bond can be particularly beneficial for individuals struggling with loneliness or isolation. Dogs encourage regular outdoor activities like walking, which increases social interactions and promotes physical activity—both key factors in maintaining mental well-being. The emotional support pets provide can also help ease feelings of depression, offering daily routines and responsibilities that create a sense of structure.
3. Enhancing Emotional Stability
For people dealing with mood disorders or PTSD, pets can act as emotional anchors. Animals are sensitive to their owner’s emotions and can offer a reassuring presence during moments of distress. Service dogs, for instance, can be trained to assist people with anxiety or panic disorders. Even non-trained pets often provide stability and emotional balance in their owners’ lives.
4. Encouraging Mindfulness and Present-Moment Awareness
Caring for a pet often removes us from the distractions of everyday life, grounding us in the present moment. Feeding, playing with, or simply watching a pet’s behaviour can be a form of mindfulness that takes our focus away from anxieties about the future or ruminations about the past. This simple, daily connection to another living being helps foster a sense of calm and presence.
To summarise, pets not only bring joy and companionship but can also offer meaningful mental health benefits. Pets can profoundly impact our psychological wellbeing by providing emotional support, reducing stress, and encouraging healthier lifestyles.
Teladoc Health UK LTD
Floor 5
Aspect House
84-87 Queens Road
Brighton, BN1 3XE
Please enter your email for instant download.