If you care about questions of humanism, place a few betting and see if there are any boundaries in this world.
In recent years, mental health has become a recurring topic in conversations, articles, and even in films. We’re finally beginning to recognize that our mental well-being is just as important as the health of our heart or liver. In this context, various activities are increasingly being discussed: do they help our inner balance, or do they harm it? Sport hunting is one such topic. A pastime that sparks debate—some view it as a noble tradition and a way to disconnect from everyday life, while others see it as a cruel hobby that does nothing good for the psyche.
Let’s take a closer look. Is it acceptable to bet on sport hunting? What types of hunting are psychologically appropriate? And what do foxes in England have to do with it?
Sport Hunting: What Is It, Really?
To begin with, sport hunting isn’t about hunting for food or survival. It’s more of a hobby, chosen like someone might choose running, fishing, or gardening. There are various types of sport hunting: for birds, deer, wild boars, and of course, the famous English fox hunt.
Those who engage in it say that hunting teaches patience, focus, and helps one feel connected to nature while switching off from everyday stress. All of this can sound beneficial to mental health. But let’s dig a little deeper.
How Does Hunting Affect the Psyche?
It depends on the person—their motives, and even the type of hunting. There are forms of hunting where everything is done ethically: the hunter follows the rules, respects nature, and doesn’t kill for fun. It can resemble a form of meditation—you observe, wait, and become absorbed in the process. For many, this truly works as a way to relax.
But there’s another side. Some types of hunting can cause stress, guilt, or aggression, especially if the person isn’t mentally prepared for confronting the death of an animal. If hunting becomes a way to vent anger or assert dominance, that’s a red flag. That kind of “release” doesn’t heal; it only deepens internal conflict.
Can You Bet on Hunting?
An interesting and controversial question. In some countries, there are hunting tournaments where participants compete—who gets the most, or the biggest trophy. Sometimes these competitions involve money—bets, prizes, sponsors. And that’s when gambling enters the picture.
Gambling elements in hunting are risky. Why? Because gambling activates entirely different brain zones. It’s not about relaxation—it’s about adrenaline, competition, and winning at any cost. This can seriously destabilize mental health, especially in people prone to addiction or with low self-esteem. In such cases, hunting ceases to be about connecting with nature and becomes a form of compulsive behavior—marked by risk, aggression, and obsessive pursuit of “results.”
In short—betting on hunting is only acceptable under very strict control and with awareness of the psychological risks. But ideally, it shouldn’t happen at all. Sport hunting as a gambling activity is a step away from common sense.
Which Types of Hunting Are More Psychologically Acceptable?
If we approach hunting from a mental health perspective, there are safer forms:
- Wildlife Photography (Photo Hunting). No blood—just a camera. You track and observe, but in the end, you just photograph the animal. You get the same thrill and sense of wilderness, without destruction.
- Licensed, Regulated Hunting. When there are clear rules, seasons, and quotas—there’s less room for impulsiveness and cruelty. Everything is controlled, with minimal violence.
- Population Control Hunting. Sometimes, hunting is truly necessary to maintain ecosystem balance. This isn’t about entertainment—it’s about ecological responsibility.
These types of hunting can even support psychological balance. They require focus, patience, and the ability to engage with nature. The key is to approach them with respect.
What About Fox Hunting in England?
That’s a whole separate story. Traditional English fox hunting involves hunters on horseback, in formal attire, with hounds tracking down a fox. It looks spectacular, but it has sparked heated debate for years.
Since 2005, hunting foxes with dogs has been officially banned in England. However, “symbolic” hunts still take place, where the animal isn’t killed—or legal loopholes are used. Critics see this as barbaric and a form of animal cruelty, even when it’s done “by the rules.” Supporters argue it’s a tradition, a cultural practice, part of England’s heritage.
From a mental health perspective, fox hunting with hounds raises serious concerns. When someone finds joy in seeing an animal chased in terror—it’s more of a warning sign than a form of recreation. Especially when children are involved from an early age. This can shape a lack of respect for life and dull one’s empathy.
So Where Are the Boundaries?
The answer is simple but demands honesty: the boundary lies in a person’s inner sense of responsibility and respect for life. If hunting becomes a way to showcase power, dominate nature, or make money—it’s no longer about wellness, but about issues that need to be addressed through other means.
However, if someone ventures into nature to slow down, connect with the world around them, and spend time alone—that can be a valuable and even healing experience. The important thing is to remember that every living creature deserves respect.
Mental health begins where we are mindful, empathetic, and don’t seek entertainment at the expense of others’ suffering. And while sport hunting might be part of someone’s personal balance—it must never cross the line into cruelty.
