The intersection of mental health and our relationship with animals is often overlooked but deeply significant. This category explores how systems of animal exploitation—such as factory farming, animal abuse, and wildlife destruction—can have profound psychological impacts on both individuals and society at large. From the trauma experienced by slaughterhouse workers to the emotional toll of witnessing cruelty, these practices leave lasting scars on the human psyche.
At the societal level, exposure to animal cruelty—whether directly or through media, culture, or upbringing—can normalize violence, reduce empathy, and contribute to broader patterns of social dysfunction, including domestic abuse and aggression. These cycles of trauma, particularly when rooted in childhood experiences, can shape long-term mental health outcomes and diminish our collective capacity for compassion.
By examining the psychological effects of our treatment of animals, this category encourages a more holistic approach to mental health—one that recognizes the interconnectedness of all life and the emotional cost of injustice. Recognizing animals as sentient beings worthy of respect may, in turn, be essential to repairing our own inner worlds.
The rise of factory farming has transformed food production, delivering affordable meat and dairy to millions. Yet, this efficiency comes at a devastating cost: the suffering of billions of animals confined to overcrowded spaces and subjected to cruel practices. Beyond the moral concerns, these operations contribute to environmental damage, public health risks, and social inequalities. As awareness grows about the hidden toll behind cheap meat, questions surrounding ethical responsibility have become impossible to ignore. This article examines the treatment of animals in factory farms while highlighting sustainable alternatives that advocate for humane practices and a healthier planet
