A project entitled Exploring the Mental Health Benefits of Aquarium Keeping has shown what we’ve long suspected and suggested: just some of the many benefits of fishkeeping for improved mental health.
The project, undertaken by University of Essex student Qudus Abiola, collected and analysed data on the mental health benefits of owning a home aquarium. Qudus, studying for an MSc in Marine Science & Sustainable Development, conducted face-to-face and online surveys with fishkeepers.
His results showed that fishkeeping—in particular, the regular activity and maintenance involved in the process—represents a potentially excellent tool for managing stress and promoting general mental well-being.
The project also uncovered marginally higher stress levels in non-fishkeepers versus those of us with aquariums – something else we’ve long touted, like here for example.
In summary, this study highlights the potential benefits of fishkeeping for mental health, particularly through the time spent on aquarium maintenance and the diversity of fish species owned. While ownership alone does not appear to significantly impact stress levels, engaging with the aquarium environment through regular maintenance offers a significant mental health boost. These findings suggest that fishkeeping can be a valuable therapeutic tool for stress management, contributing to overall well-being.
Qudus Abiola, Exploring the Mental Health Benefits of Aquarium Keeping
Keen to learn more? You can download Qudus’s report in its entirety here.
