Lots of people find spending time with animals a really fun and soothing way to help their mental health. This could look from playing with or stroking a pet, volunteering at a local animal rescue project or visiting a local farm, zoo or pet shop. A lot of people find it very calming whilst also helping them to get away from their usual thoughts.
‘Cats don’t talk back’
If you don't have a pet or know anyone you can pet-sit for, why not consider volunteering for RSPCA or Blue Cross? Not only will you get to spend time with animals but you'll gain new skills which you can add to your CV and may help improve your confidence!
In this video, Dr James Greenwood from CBBC's The Pets Factor discusses how being around animals and his pet dog, Oliver, helps him manage his mental wellbeing. Dr James also wrote a blog about the benefits of spending time with pets and animals which you can read here.