Are you among those affected by “Blue Monday”? Pets can play a key role in preserving mental well-being!

Blue Monday, or the “most depressing day of the year,” is often said to fall on the third Monday of January and is associated with feelings of sadness, low motivation, and a lack of energy. However, “blue days” can occur at any time of the year.

Research conducted by Mars confirms that pets often have a positive impact on the everyday well-being of a large number of people. So if, after a stressful day, you’d rather hug your pet than talk to your partner—don’t worry, you’re not alone.

When you’re under stress, find comfort in your pet’s embrace

A new global study conducted in 2025 on a sample of more than 30,000 pet owners, carried out by Mars and Calm—one of the leading mental health companies—shows that most respondents (58%) prefer spending time with their pet during moments of stress rather than with their partner (32%), family (23%), or even children and friends (18% each). As many as 83% of respondents believe their pet has had a positive impact on their mental well-being.

This global study, conducted across 20 markets, highlights the powerful ways in which pets enhance our mental health and overall well-being. From encouraging us to disconnect from everyday pressures and take a break from screens, work, and obligations, to offering quiet comfort when words feel unnecessary—the results clearly show how pets help millions of people around the world find calm in an always-on world.

Pets – our quiet guides to well-being, always by our side

Sometimes it’s not what they do, but simply the fact that they’re there. More than half of pet owners (56%) say their pets are the perfect company during stressful moments, because it’s enough for them to just be nearby. On the other hand, nearly a quarter of respondents (23%) say that talking to their pet helps them, as it gives them space to express worries and thoughts without expecting a response. As many as 84% of owners point out that the mere presence of their pet has a calming effect and brings a sense of peace without the need for words or additional activities.

If we view the everyday “interruptions” pets create as gentle reminders to pause, breathe, and be present in the moment, they can become a powerful tool for preserving mental health. Research shows that interactions with pets involving touch can increase oxytocin levels in humans.

How pets’ everyday behavior provides positive boosts

A break from daily routine: Nearly eight out of ten owners (78%) say their pet reminds them to stop and take a break from work, household chores, or tasks, while half of respondents say this happens every day. Pets are a gentle reminder to pause, breathe, and “reset.”

Calming the mind: As many as 73% of owners report that their pet helps them stop overthinking and worrying, making them feel calmer and more present.

More time outdoors: Three quarters of pet owners say their pet motivates them to spend more time outside, turning walks into a real well-being activity.

Screens take a back seat: 77% of respondents admit that pets encourage them to take breaks from screens. For half of the study participants, their pet is a daily reminder to “switch off,” providing an important counterbalance to constant scrolling and digital fatigue.

Research findings, along with the everyday experiences of pet owners, clearly show that small, mindful moments of calm can have a big impact on overall well-being—and pets guide us to those moments in a unique way. A short walk with a dog or petting a cat as it passes in front of your screen can be a simple way to reset and restore energy.

Today, we no longer speak only about the emotional bond between people and pets, but about the strong, scientifically proven impact this relationship has on mental, emotional, and physical health. Research shows that pets contribute to reduced stress, better emotional regulation, and greater motivation to adopt healthy daily habits. At the same time, adopting and living with a pet entails responsibility, understanding the needs of the surrounding environment, and long-term commitment.