US research finds man’s best friend is actually better for women and their mental health

It seems man’s best friend could actually be better for women.

According to research from the United States, having a pet, especially a dog, may alleviate anxiety and depression in women, especially those with a history of physical or childhood abuse.

The study, which was published on the JAMA Network — an American Medical Association open access medical journal — involved more than 200 women who were asked a series of questions via an online survey including if they owned a pet.

Of those who took part in the questionnaire, more than half were childhood abuse survivors, and what researchers found those who had a strong bond with a pet. especially a dog, had lower depression and anxiety symptoms.

The researchers said it was possible for those with insecure human attachment styles related to childhood abuse that forming a bond with a pet may compensate for the lack of secure relationships with people and protect against depression and anxiety symptoms.

In their conclusion, the researchers said while their findings might not be directly applicable to clinical practice, the results showed bonding with a pet could have therapeutic benefits for those suffering from anxiety and depression.