The benefits of a pet are no longer to be proven:it alleviates loneliness, brings comfort on a daily basis and more generally provides a feeling of well-being and even security. But his benevolence and unfailing loyalty would have even more far-reaching effects, such as helping to fight against such serious ailments as depression. So say two Portuguese researchers, whose study was recently published in the journal Journal of Psychiatric Research . The duo discovered that adopting an animal could give relief to sufferers suffering from severe depression and whose chances of remission are low because they are “resistant” to antidepressants and psychotherapy. Jorge Mota Pereira and Daniela Fonte, from Porto, asked 80 people suffering from “treatment-resistant major depressive disorder” (this is the scientific name of the disease) to adopt an animal. 33 accepted, including 20 who chose a dog and 7 a cat (the choice of the remaining 5 is not specified). Symptoms of depression were assessed over a 12-week period, with two check-ups performed at the 4th and 8th week, respectively.
At the end of the experiment, the scientists found that more than a third of the patients who had adopted an animal showed a better psychological state. They had better “scores” on the Hamilton Depression Scale and the Global Rating Scale for Adult Functioning, to the point that their symptoms could be considered “moderate.” Pretty crazy, right? The team assures that the adoption of an animal could then act as an "effective adjuvant", understand a medication added to another to reinforce or complete its action. They add that the patients in question have developed over the weeks "a strong affinity and a bond of friendship which promotes good mental health". If offering an adorable doggie or kitty to a loved one in distress can thus be a good idea, it is necessary to ensure beforehand that the latter is ready to take full responsibility for it (and we understand of course that this is not always the case in view of the chaotic emotional state in which he can be plunged…). Ah, the immeasurable power of our animal friends!
