The Solution to Student’s Problems by Kiana Dallas
Are animals the balm we need for school stress?
The Effects of Pets
Around 62% of people in the UK have a pet at home – a number that is only set to rise, and one that many of those reading will be able to contribute to.
But what is it about animals that makes them so popular? It’s a question that has been delved into many a time, with studies that stretch across hours, days, and decades.
The answer lies within the benefits they provide us. Canine, or equine therapy, for example, is possible due to the colossal decrease in cortisol levels (a stress hormone), blood pressure and anxiety when animals are present. This is due to the release of endorphins that help to make people happier.
What does this mean for us?
Potentially, if we put these positive effects to use, it could mean a drastic improvement in both grades and mental health alike.
The Links Between Animals and Education
School is so often associated with stress – panic about upcoming exams, or friend group troubles and deadlines – but that’s an image that could be changed.
Similar things have been tried before: Story Dogs, for example. An organisation that helps over 1,500 children with their literacy by allowing them to read to dogs. It allows them to build confidence at a rate that is unmatched; insurmountable.
They also open up the opportunity for clubs, dedicated to caring for the animals. This could include walking them, or training them. Anything that could help students get more active in the community, while also building their sense of responsibility.
Students and Their Futures
In a world of rapidly increasing pet owners, how many students do you think aspire towards a career with animals? How beneficial could it be for them to have prior experience in that field?
Recently, we contacted a woman called Mary Jane, who grew up without pets and unaware of any harboured love for animals. “When I got my first pet, it opened so many doors for me,” She said, “It got me wishing I’d pursued a career in veterinary, but it’s too late for me now.”
It’s a common tragedy – of people having missed out on a part of life that is built into the foundation of other people’s.
And it may be too late for Mary Jane, but it’s not too late for others like her. Every day, students go through school, anxious and stressed, with no chance of reprieve. If we get animals on-site at schools, the outcomes would be indisputable. Unimaginable.
Don’t let others like us, lead a life like Mary’s.
The Effects of Pets
Around 62% of people in the UK have a pet at home – a number that is only set to rise, and one that many of those reading will be able to contribute to.
But what is it about animals that makes them so popular? It’s a question that has been delved into many a time, with studies that stretch across hours, days, and decades.
The answer lies within the benefits they provide us. Canine, or equine therapy, for example, is possible due to the colossal decrease in cortisol levels (a stress hormone), blood pressure and anxiety when animals are present. This is due to the release of endorphins that help to make people happier.
What does this mean for us?
Potentially, if we put these positive effects to use, it could mean a drastic improvement in both grades and mental health alike.
The Links Between Animals and Education
School is so often associated with stress – panic about upcoming exams, or friend group troubles and deadlines – but that’s an image that could be changed.
Similar things have been tried before: Story Dogs, for example. An organisation that helps over 1,500 children with their literacy by allowing them to read to dogs. It allows them to build confidence at a rate that is unmatched; insurmountable.
They also open up the opportunity for clubs, dedicated to caring for the animals. This could include walking them, or training them. Anything that could help students get more active in the community, while also building their sense of responsibility.
Students and Their Futures
In a world of rapidly increasing pet owners, how many students do you think aspire towards a career with animals? How beneficial could it be for them to have prior experience in that field?
Recently, we contacted a woman called Mary Jane, who grew up without pets and unaware of any harboured love for animals. “When I got my first pet, it opened so many doors for me,” She said, “It got me wishing I’d pursued a career in veterinary, but it’s too late for me now.”
It’s a common tragedy – of people having missed out on a part of life that is built into the foundation of other people’s.
And it may be too late for Mary Jane, but it’s not too late for others like her. Every day, students go through school, anxious and stressed, with no chance of reprieve. If we get animals on-site at schools, the outcomes would be indisputable. Unimaginable.
Don’t let others like us, lead a life like Mary’s.
