Dogs, Cats, Birds, Fish – Can All Help Manage Mental Illness Symptoms

For folks like us, having and caring for pets can be an important part of family interaction but pets mean a lot more to the mentally ill - they can be a lifeline.

For people struggling with long term mental illness, a helping paw may be more beneficial than a helping hand. Researchers from the United Kingdom asked dozens of adults with long-term mental conditions about the role pets play in their social networks. Sixty percent placed pets in the central and most important circle --above family, friends and hobbies.

Another 20 percent placed pets in the second circle. Many said the constant presence and close proximity of their pets provide an immediate source of calm. WebMD.com says the patients help distract from symptoms and upsetting experiences like hearing voices or suicidal thoughts.