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Reid\u2019s parents and friends were relieved that he was found unharmed. The student explained to the police that he was feeling extremely homesick and stressed due to his exams, with the University of Walford having one of the most prestigious Physics programs worldwide. He said his anxiety was unbearable and he had constant thoughts about his dog Olly back home, who used to calm him whenever he felt troubled or unhappy. Thus, when he ran out of his student accommodation and bumped into a stray dog, he related to its loneliness and found solace in its company. He then stayed around parks, surviving on simple meals from street stalls for days.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There have been numerous cases of stressed university students trying to escape their demanding school and work life in the past few years. Recent studies reveal that 80% of university students feel stressed, with one-third of them having experienced issues in which they felt the need to seek professional help.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Psychologists and animal welfare organisations do not suggest Reid\u2019s approach to relieving stress, despite the warm and unexpected story of the bond between human, canine and nature. However, they do believe that exploring nature and participating in outdoor activities are healthy routes to do so. It is suggested that smartphones and social media are major reasons for anxiety among young people, especially with the increase in screen time since the Covid pandemic. Animals can also be a solution to overwhelming pressure, with research showing that even ten minutes of petting an animal can lower the levels of the stress hormone cortisol in the human body. Visiting nature is shown to have similar effects as well. Hence, an RSPCA campaign is now focusing on mental health and reconnecting Gen Z with nature, holding four events in the London Royal Parks, allowing young people, especially those without a pet at home, to play with rescue dogs and participate in dog-walking events as a form of stress relief. This provides young people with the de-stressing opportunity they need, a moment to get away from their worries and reconnect with nature and animals.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n