After my depression and anxiety hit an all time low, I got my puppy as a part of my recovery and therapy. Two years ago when I was having really dark days I would search for puppies online, looking at their adorable faces and I would feel more hopeful and optimistic. On the day that I went to get Leo, for the first time in months I was truly joyful. Throughout the three hour car ride I thought about different names and how perfect my puppy was going to be. I imagined taking him to the beach, bringing him to the park, and going for runs with him. For the first time in months I felt like I had a purpose; to give this puppy an amazing life. When I first set my eyes on the energetic fur ball a smile erupted from ear to ear. He was the cutest little thing I had ever seen. The whole ride home he sat on my lap giving me kisses as I pet him. My mom told me that she couldn't remember the last time I had looked so happy. The impact he makes on my wellbeing and mental health is astonishing. Here are 12 reasons why you should consider getting an emotional support animal if you have depression or anxiety:
1. Reduces blood pressure
Petting your emotional support animal has been clinically proven to lower your blood pressure. When touching or talking to your pet your heart rate decreases which can help make you feel more calm and relaxed.
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2. Releases oxytocin
Research has shown that when you make eye contact with your pet, your levels of oxytocin rise. This hormone plays a role in your sense of trust, bonding, and altruism. It is known to be a hormone that helps you "feel good" and will help you feel more happy and optimistic.
3. Gives purpose
Pets need to be cared for every day. They depend on you to feed them, give them water, take care of their hygiene, and so on. Often people suffering from depression feel useless and purposeless. Having a pet gives you a reason to get out of bed every day.
4. Recognizes when in need of more love
Most pets are smart enough to sense their owner's emotional state and can recognize when you are having a bad day. If they sense this they will remain close to you, reminding you that you are loved and important.
5. Makes you smile
Pets are always doing adorable things. Whether they are getting into something mischievous or tilting their head in a specific way, they make you smile all the time. When your brain recognizes that your facial muscles for smiling are engaged, your brain realigns your mood to match your expression. Smiling more often can make you feel significantly happier.
6. Provides unwavering friendship
No matter if you are smelly, wearing the same clothes as the day before, extremely grumpy, exhausted, or not in the mood to do anything, your pet still wants to be your friend. They are stubbornly and unwavering your most loyal and best friend in the world.
7. Helps you sleep better
Research has shown that pet owners that let their pets sleep in their bed at night with them sleep significantly better. The presence of an animal helps us feel more safe when we sleep. When you sleep better you are more likely to be in a better mood, feeling more optimistic and purposeful.
8. Gets you active
Many pets require exercise. Taking your pet for a walk or to the park helps both your and your pet be more healthy. Getting outside increases your vitamin D absorption from the sun. Exercise releases endorphins which help you feel less stressed and more happy.
9. Listens to you
Your pet can always provide a listening ear if you need to vent about your day or need to voice your emotions to someone that will never judge you. While they sadly cannot talk back, they will always listen. Voicing your feelings aloud can help you process your emotions and feel better faster.
10. Provides warmth
Cuddling up with your emotional support animal will provide a warm sense of love and security. Touching and hugging releases oxytocin which make you feel happier, less lonely or isolated, and less angry.
11. Loves you unconditionally
Your pet loves you more than anything else in the whole wide world, no matter who you are or what you do. Having this relationship built upon unwavering love and trust makes you feel important and loved.
12. You love them unconditionally
You will indubitably love your pet more than anything else. The bond between you and your animal is priceless. Loving something that loves you back makes you feel very important and happy.
