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January 15, 2010

Strange But True!

Q. You and the rest of the staff at “Math for Women” are tackling some tough problems and have been encouraged to bring along a companion to the sessions for stress control. Should you take a) your spouse b) your best friend c) your dog?

A. Your dog would likely be the best choice to help handle any stress you might feel, says researcher Karen Allen in “Psychology” by David G. Myers. Many people liken a loyal dog or cat to a close family member, helping them feel calm, valued, happy. A pet can be a best friend that will love you just as you are (whether you can do the math or not), that is nonjudgmental and is always there for you. Thus pets even have healing power. Also Allen reports that pets have been found to increase the odds of survival after a heart attack, to relieve depression among AIDS patients and to lower levels of blood lipids that increase cardiovascular risk.


 
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