When you walk by my window on campus, you will most likely see a little white and gray cat looking up at you. Your first thought will probably be about how cute he is (because he is, let’s be honest!), and your second will be if I’m allowed to have him here or if I’m sneaking him in. Since fish are the only approved pet on campus, it might surprise you that my active, growing kitten is indeed acknowledged and permitted. This is because Cloud is a certified emotional support animal. His job is to keep me calm during times of panic, to distract me from my sadness, and to keep me active and motivated by giving me something to care for. A mental health professional has given his recommendation that having my cat at school is necessary for me to function well and comfortably with my anxiety and depression.

I’ve dealt with anxiety issues for as long as I can remember, and panic attacks for about ten years. During this time I have learned to make self care a priority and to figure out how I best cope and calm myself down. Riding horses and spending time with any of my pets has always made me feel nurtured and uplifted. Being in college adds many additional stressors to my everyday mental state, and after some reflection I realized that I needed a change to my college life. My emotional support animal is a constant I can always count on being there everyday when I get back from class. When I am in the middle of a panic attack or even just feeling too overwhelmed, I know I can pet him, play with him, or cuddle him until I am back to a place of serenity. When anxiety or depression is particularly bad, getting out of bed in the morning can be one of the biggest struggles, as well as staying out of bed during the day. Lack of motivation is not only a symptom of anxiety and depression, but also increases it immensely. However, now I have someone counting on me to take care of him, just like he takes care of me.

Another thing you might say after passing by my window is that you wish you could have one too. I understand that animals are so beneficial to all people and their stress levels, with or without mental disorders, but not everyone needs one to get through life successfully and in a healthy mindset. Getting approval for an emotional support animal is difficult for a reason, and in order for it to still be an option for those who really need one, not everyone can qualify. Being told by people that they want to find a need or make one up so they can get the same thing I have is very minimizing and unnecessary. We should all be working to fight the stigma of mental illness by spreading awareness to new resources and ways of thinking.

Cloud and I have had a special connection since the day I found him and his sister orphaned at 3 weeks old, and it is much more than thinking he is cute or enjoying playing with him. I am so fortunate and blessed to have my cat with me at school. Also knowing that housing with him under any circumstance or bringing him on public transportation will most likely not be a problem is very comforting. However, it is not fortunate that I need him. My mental illnesses are chronic and daily battles, and because I did not have the emotional support I needed before, I have unfortunately endured some dark times during my past three years without Cloud. So please do not be jealous of me needing an emotional support animal, instead be happy that I (and many others) have found something so valuable for my health and happiness.