Celebrity Masterchef champion Riyadh Khalaf highlighting mental health and pets for Pride Month

Amid the celebrations of Pride Month, new research has revealed that almost half of LGBTQ+ people say that owning a pet has improved their own mental health.

The survey, from cat food brand Dreamies, also revealed that over three quarters of LGBTQ+ people in the UK have anxiety, while over two thirds suffer from depression and over half experience panic attacks. This is most commonly leaving people feeling lonely, isolated, helpless, and frustrated.

The research has revealed that people are using their pets as a means to improve their mental health. Over half said that cuddling and talking to their pets has been useful in managing negative feelings, and that owning a pet has been instrumental in helping to mitigate negative periods in their mental health.

Aston spoke to cat owner, metal health advocate and 2020 Celebrity Masterchef champion Riyadh Khalaf.

Photo by Erik-Jan Leusink on Unsplash