To help relieve stress and those dealing with mental illness, NAMI hosted pet therapy last Wednesday.

According to the organization’s website, “NAMI is the National Alliance on Mental Illness, the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness. NAMI advocates for access to services, treatment, supports and research and is steadfast in its commitment to raise awareness and build a community for hope for all of those in need.”

NAMI is not only at Southeastern to help students with mental illness but  also to  educate  people on mental illness and how to help those who have it.

Research has shown that pet therapy is a way in which people are able to get relief from negative emotions.  

According to the webmd website, “Studies show that animals can reduce tension and improve mood. Along with treatment, pets can help some people with mild to moderate depression feel better.” 

Along with helping people’s emotions, the webmd website explains how pet therapy can also help with uncomplicated love, responsibility, activity, routine, companionship, social interaction, physical contact of others and provide better health. 

Dogs can help a person who is going through a time of troubles even if they may hide how they are currently feeling from other people. 

“There is just this sense of calm that they bring,” said Tara MacInnes working on her masters in clinical mental health counseling. “Dogs have a sense of understanding that people don’t always understand, and dogs can just be beneficial to people.”

Those pursuing a career in counseling also can gain knowledge of real world experience.

“I’m getting my masters in counseling and studying for local mental care counseling,” said MacInnes. “My dogs are in the middle of being trained as therapy dogs so hopefully they will work for me with clients in the future.”

To learn more about NAMI, visit their website or contact the President at [email protected]. 

Tiana, a dog in training to one day aid patients dealing with mental illness, visits campus to help those that pass by deal with the stress and anxiety of finals week through pet therapy. This is the first time pet therapy was brought to campus to help relax students in a time that may be stressful. 

The Lion’s Roar / Fernanda Chagas