LARGO, Fla. — A Pinellas County animal shelter is launching a new initiative to mark this National Mental Health Awareness Month, and it taps into the power animals have to decrease stress in our lives, and bolster our mental health.
SPCA Tampa Bay, based in Largo, believes the unconditional love and unwavering loyalty that animals provide can often be the key to unlocking better mental health for many people.
And there’s science to back this up. Research by the National Institute of Health (NIH) shows that interacting with animals leads to the release of increased oxytocin, often referred to as the "love hormone." This hormone plays a crucial role in reducing stress and promoting feelings of trust and bonding.
The simple act of stroking a cat or playing fetch with a dog can also lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress.
This May, SPCA is highlighting the benefits of animals on mental health in the hopes it may lead to more adoptions.
SPCA Marketing Specialist Camille Harkenrider said, "We strongly advocate for people adopting or people spending time with animals, to benefit their own mental health, but also the mental health of the animals here. The shelter is a really stressful environment, and having that time together really benefits both the people and the animals."
SPCA Tampa Bay has also partnered with the local police union, Suncoast Police Benevolent Association, for a "cops adopt" program, assisting law enforcement with pet adoption fees. They have a similar program for veterans.
"That sacrifice that they make is really important, and we want to make sure that we honor them and provide the support that they need," Harkenrider said. "While they're going through it, or after they've gone through it."
If you’re not in a position to adopt but are still looking for the mental health benefits of being around animals, SPCA said it's always looking for dedicated volunteers.
For more information about adopting or volunteering with SPCA Tampa Bay, click here.