Why Pet Zoo?
The world is witnessing tremendous economic growth, and is simultaneously grappling with a significant rise in mental health issues. The latest census reveals the world as the world’s most populous nation, with depression, anxiety, and loneliness reaching unprecedented levels. The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated this crisis, with lockdowns and physical distancing measures intensifying social isolation. Mental health problems have emerged as complex and pressing concerns, affecting a significant portion of the population. Addressing mental health in the world involves overcoming various challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, limited awareness, and deep-rooted social stigmas surrounding mental illnesses. The situation is worsened by high levels of stress, poverty, unemployment, and rapid urbanization.
Loneliness has emerged as a significant societal issue contributing to the mental health pandemic in the world, affecting individuals across various age groups and backgrounds. Rapid urbanization, shifting family structures, and the pervasive influence of addictive technologies, such as social media, have heightened feelings of isolation among many in the world. The fast-paced lifestyle, long working hours, and migration in pursuit of employment opportunities often leave individuals feeling disconnected from their families and communities. Furthermore, social stigma and cultural norms surrounding mental health create barriers for individuals to openly express their loneliness or seek support.
Research and scientific linkage
Research published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health in 2019 revealed that spending time with pets reduced perceived stress and improved overall well-being. Multiple studies have shown pets’ positive effects on anxiety and depression. For instance, a meta-analysis in BMC Psychiatry in 2018 associated pet ownership with lower levels of depressive symptoms and loneliness. Pets offer companionship, purpose, and greater social support, benefiting individuals dealing with mental health challenges. Despite these benefits, pet ownership faces challenges like time and living space constraints, rising costs for taking care of pets leading to a surge in pet abandonment cases in the United Kingdom, adding pressure to shelter homes responsible for caring for these abandoned animals.
Scientifically, using our app is hypothetically linked to release of a hormone in the brain of the user seeking service called ‘oxytocin’ that induces anti-stress-like effects such as reduction of blood pressure and cortisol (stress) and anxiety levels. Oxytocin is also said to have anti-aging and anti-obesity effects, boosts the ability to cope with stress, increases generosity and decreases memory of bad experiences/trauma.
