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486d
Do you find pets helpful for your mental health?
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Depression
Chronic Memory Loss
Acute lethargy
Anxiety (Including GAD)
Acute Anxiety
Panic Disorder
Generalized pain
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67d
We got our dog because it was recommended by my therapist. I absolutely love him but he has severe separation anxiety which is resistant to medication. It restricts me so much and I'm mostly stuck in my house .
0
68d
I'm on the wait list for a service dog. My pet dog currently barks or hides when I have a meltdown but allows me to go for walks because if I start to have a catatonic episode he will start dragging me so I don't just stop walking and freeze in a position in the middle of the sidewalk for an hour
80d
Yep I have an esa for my college because otherwise my anxiety and depression is through the roof. She gives me something to focus on other than myself so I can get out of my own mind and pay attention to her
146d
I used to have a real pet wolf that was my emotional support wolf and she was very helpful to me and that’s a wolf not a dog in my opinion wolves are generally much better than dogs yes people find them scary but that’s because they believe the lies about them but infact there better and more kinder than dogs I like dogs but I’m just saying that as an experienced wolf owner and dog owner
147d
Yesss I love all my pets especially my bird I love him with all my heart, he helps a lot and I think he can tell when I’m feeling down or when I have a panic attack he always snuggles with me. And caring for my reptiles and fish is kinda therapeutic in a way
150d
Yes! My kitten brings me so much joy and laughter each day.
163d
I have 4 dogs and 2 cats, yes it helps, however it can become a issue if you have too many
166d
Yes
167d
Yes!!!!!
172d
I had a cat which was like a baby to me, he bonded with me and followed me everywhere ( even to the bathroom ) He was killed a couple of months ago and it has torn a huge hole in my heart , I miss him so much He was definitely a great help with my mental health
173d
100% yes
Definitely
174d
Definitely.
184d
Definitely!!
185d
Mine are and aren’t 😂 I picked some crazy pets and they all like to take turns getting sick which is stressful
186d
I've been trying to get our dog into our apartment building, ,( apartment has rules against big dogs...,,)but none will write a letter stating I need him, even with all my diagnosis. Any advice?? Thanks in advance 🐕
187d
100%, I've had my cat for 7 years now, and there's not one day that I could ever imagine not having her by side, she's a daughter to me and I wouldn't change her for the world.
206d
Most definitely, but they can also be a strain if it's not a good match.
208d
yes and i honestly think that would cure my depression. I was so happy when i had a dog
209d
I think they are but I can't have a dog
214d
216d
Yes 1000%
217d
Yes my pets help me with stress
222d
Definitely was suicide at one time in life but RIP to my dog though it's been 6 to 7 years without him & it's sad, just sad that I'll never be able to get another dog again because I don't drive or am able to work
224d
Yessssss I love all my lil babies I have 7 different pets lol, but they make me so happy cuddling with the ones I can do that with nd just caring for them gives me so much joy
226d
Hi, how are you?
227d
Most definitely 💕. I have my bunny Peanut, he's really incredible. I was having a bad morning and he came and lied down next to me. They really know 🥰
I have 5 dogs and they help so much, including making me spend some time outdoors. But sometimes they bark, and I get irritable, not always, but when I get mad at them, then I start feeling ashamed and upset with myself even though I never yell at them, I just hate that they could ever make me mad. I just found out I have a mood disorder and I just can't deal sometimes.
Definitely! I have two adult cats (one which recently had three kittens). My oldest cat, Onyx, definitely knows when I am struggling with one or more of my diagnoses. She's old and knows me all too well. My younger one, Angel, is an idiot, but super loving and hilarious, and great at making me laugh.
1
228d
Sometimes. I have an old man cat and he drives me nuts but other days I feel loving of him. So I would miss him if he passed away.
229d
Absolutely, having something to look after provides structure to every day and keeps me healthy and happy. Also makes me good memories that aren’t always physically demanding
241d
Absolutely! Wouldn't be able to cope without them.
100%
Yes. Both my pups
242d
Definitely. Hence why I have 6 cats
Yes and no Sometimes I feel worse as I am not as good to my person as someone who doesn't have a disbailty. Other times she is the reason I am alive and keep going
100%. If I have a bad day dogs are always there and put a smile on my face
247d
Forgot if I replied to this already. I adopt mice and rats (they're kept separate in different kinds of homes), and they've helped me immensely. With the right training, they can become very social and playful pretty quickly. They're happy to see me every single day and they help me feel less alone if I'm feeling down. My "medication station" is in the same room as my mouse's home and he's learned that mama is nearby when he hears my pill bottles rattling so as a reward for taking my meds, I get to pet and snuggle with him since he comes out of hiding every time he hears I'm around. It's so cute.
Absolutely, my Buzzy Bear is an absolute dream ❤️
250d
Yes! I would be lost without them, I reckon.
254d
Where would I be if my Chloe wasn't there 💕
255d
I wouldnt be here anymore, but not just my furry child but my scaly one aswell
If it wasn't for my furbabies giving me purpose though this dark times I would prob just lay in bed and wither away.
Yes. I love spending time with mimi
263d
Heeelll yeah!
264d
Absolutely! My dog Otis is a service dog for medical alerts and mobility, but he also helps my emotional state immensely!
265d
267d
My mother got me a kitten when quarantine first started and she's my world. She cuddles me and comforts me when I cry. I dont know what I would do without her.
271d
Yes, very much so.
272d
Yes I think they do help
273d
Jerry the cat like the ice cream Ben's and Jerry he is the sweetest cat I ever met
280d
Absolutely, my dog is the best😌
I have 5 dogs. They love you so much & even on bad days they will make you happy. They are also great snuggle buddies.
@BipolarInWonderland I love this. I also have 5 dogs and they are my world. I love the name too. I was just diagnosed as bipolar and one of my favorite movies is Alice in Wonderland. 😊
281d
Yes I do
282d
❤️
283d
Yes!! My kitties help me so much and make me thankful
Y E S
284d
Absolutely!! The connection, sense of belonging and support they can provide is immeasurable and unique. 🙏🏼🐾💖 And they’re truly unconditional: they’re there with us no matter what, and they can be our sole companions during times when building community with other humans is challenging. I’m so grateful for my Floofie family!! 🥰🐾💖
288d
absolutely! having pets that love me and enjoy my presence is a huge boost. my rats get super excited when i come home and they always want to say hi. and having to take care of them gives me a sense of purpose in my daily life. also watching my lizard eat and seeing the feeder insects have been making me see wonder in living things.
Most definitely! They are my salvation when it comes to life and people ❤️
Yes, I love the comfort of cats :)
@IceCup291 I say cats because i was terrified of dogs when i was younger (i think it was because i grew up with 2 cats). But as i got to age 13, i was still a bit scared but it was much better compared to when i was around 4-6. Now i am much better with dogs and planning on getting one in the future.
289d
Yes I will never live without a dog
291d
I think that’s been proven already. I love to see dogs, when I’m in the hospital. 🤗
💯
Yes I have a wolf she is an emotional support wolf I also have a cat to she also helps
292d
Yes, even when they are annoying me. I wouldn't know what to do without them around.
A good reason to keep going, and hopefully find more to live for
Mimi is a calming dog
I did find comfort in them
294d
So very very much. I adore my kittys!
YES!!! VERY MUCH SO!!! I DO NOT KNOW WHAT I WOULD DO WITHOUT MY ANIMALS!
295d
YES!!! IDK WHAT ID DO WITHOUT MY EMOTIONAL SUPPORT CAT
298d
My dog is my best friend she keeps me going even when I want to give up. She seems to know when I need extra cuddles, and when I am crying because life is so overwhelming she starts licking my face and bark's in a gentle way. I rescued her but Im starting to think she rescued me when she came into my life. Pets are amazing emotional support animals they're beautiful little souls who always love us no matter what we are going through
299d
I would like to have a service and therapy dog someday. So yeah, they help my mental health.
300d
Absolutely, I have a Cocker Spaniel, she is so clever, she knows when I need her and when I need a cuddle. Also in 2016 I had an operation and the removed one of my brain tumor trough my nose. (Endoscopic endonasal surgery) after my op she is obsessed with my nose, she gives it a lick every chance she gets.
Yes l wish l could have one.
360d
Absolutely. I have fur babies who depend on me. Focusing on them instead of myself helps a lot. I look forward to when I get off work and can plop down and bury my face in the fur of either my cat or dog. Whichever one is closest.
361d
I can’t kill myself because of my chonky Prince. Oh days I don’t want to get out of bed, I have to because his Meowjesty needs his royal breakfast. If I don’t want to clean the house, I have to because Lord Chonkerton Fluffy Butt likes it clean. And if I curl up in pain or I cry, he’s right there to kiss the tears off my cheeks and heal my heart with his purr.
363d
Always feel better when having cuddles with my cat Luna.
373d
Hell yes. Im a HUGE animal lover i feel happy and more like myself when im with animals. They make a HUGE difference in my life :)
375d
Absolutely. For me it's one of our cats, her name is Pebbles. She always lays next to me and comes to see what I'm up to, and I just find giving her cuddles and pats helps me feel less anxious and takes my mind off of things for a while. Sometimes she'll lay on me which helps lower heart rate and calm me down :]
Omg yes yes yes. My bunny Peanut is my fluffy baby. I get on the floor and give him love and in return he takes away my worries. I really don't know what I would do without him. Xx
379d
100%! My horse, dogs, cats, and cattle drives improve my mood so much!
389d
🤗
Absolutely, my cat is the best and always seems to know when I need comfort
390d
2 billion percent ! My best friends 🐾
393d
Yes! Especially my service dog lol super cool when he alerts to me to leave my house when I'm depressed (it was supposed to be to help me exit durring a flashback, but I think he figured out it helps me when I'm very depressed aswell lol dogs are too smart)
394d
Hell yeah! I recently got a new pup called Lillie and she's a doggie with no back legs and helps keep my nervous system and pain at a low while we keep each other company
397d
Yes, my dog keeps my nervous system calm so my pain is less
398d
Yes! My dogs make me happy every day if even for a minute or two!
404d
Absolutely. I try to visit my closest cat cafe regularly to reduce my stress.
406d
I swear my cat is a service cat but I guess the licenses don’t believe cats can perform service like dogs 🫤. He comes to sit on my chest before I know I’m going to panic. He stops me from pacing by doing figure eights around my legs when I’m going manic. He reaches out to touch my face when I’m down. He wants to make eye contact to check how I’m doing. He even meows at me and knocks down my meds bottle when I haven’t taken them yet. He’s very good at keeping time. Plus he only likes to eat when I’m eating too, and he’ll keep bugging me till I also make food before he eats, so that forces me to eat at least 2 meals a day. Not to mention that he likes to play with me. so I get a dose of mindfulness and joy. I feel like I won the lottery with this boy.
407d
Esma is the happiest dog you'll ever meet. Toms of energy but can calm down when she can tell I'm not in the mood to play and I get cuddles
@HocusFocus awww
Definitely!!! My dog forces me to get out of bed at least three times a day and wake up before 3 pm to actually take care of her, otherwise on my days off I'd sit around and only watch tv or something. I'm forced to take care of her, so it helps me a lot. I love Esma and wouldn't trade her for anything. Plus I've been getting extra cuddles recently!!!!!!!!!
Try being me I'm allergic to fur and my baby died
@princessc oh no so sorry
@princessc loosing someone like that sucks
@princessc that's depressing, sorry
My cats and lizard are a massive comfort tbh
@Bambi1993 awww
408d
Yes very helpful they can tell when u don’t feel good
@LaurenRomero that's amazing
Somewhat
Very helpful. I know cats are very sensitive and they have "healing skills". They calm me down.
@CrazyMeerkat so true
409d
Absolutely! Last summer I was able to get an emotional support animal in my college dorm room. I wanted a guinea pig for a long time, and I was able to get one as my ESA. He is a very helpful and loyal pig. He’s almost like a dog to me. He’s spoiled, and if I’m really struggling, he knows when something is up.
@KatGPT so glad to hear that!
Yes, my kitten helps motivate me, and it's nice to have a cuddly animal around when you're not doing well
@clovers awww
410d
my guide dog is my rock. Love him
Yes and no. Yes because of course i love caring for a fur baby when he returns to me as a support animal. Makes it feel more than. Like they can understand you just cant speak. But no, because as ay young mother, i have no energy or time for a fur baby. Which could actually help tremendously when kids are too young to understand why you want a hug from them when they’re busy with theyre toys or own world, only in their time. It’s bittersweet
Yes! Unfortunately we can't have certified emotional support animals where I live, though.
Yes, so much so my pit bull is a certified emotional support animal
413d
yes yes yes!! love them so much and they help with any worries I end up having :)
@willownyx same
1000%
@qveenofthecastles truth
100 ℅
@CrazyMeerkat true
414d
Most definitely. Getting on the floor with my indoor bunny, he seems to take my worries away. They really are fantastic 🥰🥰
@FatHammie aww
415d
My dog Caleb is my service dog and without him I don't think I'd make it through the day to day
@PercyKourage aw
416d
I don't think I could cope without my cats. I have three of them, and they're all incredibly loving. My parents have a dog who also is super loving.
@Skittles22 that's amazing
It was for me, but I would approach this solution with caution. Having an animal in my life is stressful. I have to make sure I can afford food, toys, and vet visits. I have to take her out right before school and have to come home to let her out before I can do anything else and still have to take her out every two or three hours when not working or sleeping. I have to bath her, train her, and give her attention. If it isn't a service animal, you have to pay extra for pet boarding or pet-friendly places if you need to travel. You may not want to travel now, but you may find new interests or need to travel for business. For me, the benefit of having someone to make me get up in the morning, give me unconditional love, and provide support when I'm not feeling well outweighs the negatives. However, some may feel more overwhelmed by this responsibility than it is worth or realize a few months in that they can't financially support another living thing and have to go through the emotionally draining process of rehoming. I think it's important to evaluate how this added responsibility would affect you BEFORE you make the leap.
@curtain yes but you can register then for only a hundred something bucks. That's what I did with Esma
Sometimes. Sometimes my dogs make me wanna pull my hair out but I still love them! When I'm sad they really show they care. My cats stress me out a lot less though lol. They're chill.
@Marry_Me same
433d
Always.
@EliteLexy same
Extremely so....however sometimes it is more than i can handle when depressed or sleep deprived...not brushing them enough etc ..and then i feel huilty..consider " easy pet/ breed"
434d
My esa dog Merida is my whole world and of it wasn’t for her I wouldn’t get up on the morning. She makes me have to think of someone outher than me and take care of her. She knows when I’m sick or when my anxiety is coming on or depressed. She will come lay with me or come lick me and let me know she is there and that it’s okay. She makes me laugh and she is just the love of my life. She is just like one of my own kids now that mine are all grown up
435d
My last dog died just as my mental health and disassociations she was helping me with them just by being near me... It got really really bad after she died...so bad that bad, ended up in hospital lots with many...injuries. Not to go into details but it was bad. She was a Jerman Shepherd, Labrador cross and she was amazing...her birthday is on 14th feb, 4 days away. It still hurts.. Anyway we got another dog last october, a pure bread jerman shepherd. He is amazing and crazy. I taught him some deep pressure therapy things and he helps when I start dissasotiatung. He somehow knows when its happening...sort of even though he is only 1 and 1/2. He has a habbit of when I'm spitaling into a disassociation he starts being more crazy and climbing all over me. He is 40kg aka 7stone and he also starts acting up by grabbing things he isn't supposed to and nipping me. It helps and often once I'm more in control he just sits with me. He helps lots.
Knowing that my sweet boys rely on me being healthy and functional really helps me find the motivation to keep going. Being a fur-parent helps me to improve and become the best, healthiest version of myself. I want to be the best parent I can be- for my kitties !!
452d
Yes 🤗 I have a furbaby called Eva - a shiztzu cross chihuahua
I got my cat after our previous fur baby was hit by a car once people started going back to work during covid. I was struggling with my mental health and fear covid was going to make my health worse, he is a house cat and make me smile every day however he only play fights me in our house otherwise a very gentle cat. I have EDS my hands are so scarred from him biting when playing with him. He got me through a dark time and is such a mummy's boy. I think pets know alot even though they can't speak. X
I got an esa letter for my Guinea pig to live on campus with me cuz she helps so much. Not even holding her, watching her makes me happier and chartering to her needs. I recently bought her a bigger cage and I can’t wait to watch her zoom around it
@Beetlejuul Catering*
It depends.. my cats can be little stinkers, and the can stress me out financially! But I love them regardless.
Yes and no. I have an emotional support kitty and doggo. They are super comforting most of the time but I do have days where I just scream at them to get away from me because they are just too needy and I'm struggling to even care for myself. I try to recognize the good and bad days. And my babies are always supportive of their crazy mama.
2
453d
My old dog (RIP) was my best friend for so long. He always knew when I was having a flare but his vet’s misdiagnosed him and he was only 7. It honestly broke me but because of my autism, I can’t ever show it because it takes me a while to process things. He was the absolute best honestly 😥
Yes, my cat is amazing. She is trained as a emotional support animal
Yes I do unless they are “bad” or do something wrong then it stresses me or makes me angry
454d
Yes, if sad hug cat, get better.
Helpful but thanks to people abusing the ESA aspect of apartment living, I'm finding it increasingly difficult to get an ESA for my anxiety, ADHD, and hearing impairment. My pcp is all for supporting me in that but because I see a separate provider for mental health, her hands are tied and my mental health facility no longer does ESA acceptance letters due to liability issues they've had when people abuse the system trying to have aggressive pitbulls, great danes, huskies, or other loud, large, destructive, multiple animals in apartments. Or simply want dogs but won't clean up after them.
458d
Absolutely! My dogs love me unconditionally and I need that in my life. They kiss my tears and make great warmers for a lap.
Yes, unfortunately none of my pets are actually mine so I can't move out with them.
yes! my cat always knows when I need support
459d
Absolutely. I don't think I'd be alive today without my pets. They are a constant source of comfort and companionship. ❤️
460d
Absolutely! Why do you think there are so many emotional support, therapy, and service animals? Just something about them is so great for the soul!💕
@bretange so true
My cat is basically my child. My day and life revolve around my husband and our cat.
@AstraDragon aww
461d
@Katharina same
Not "helpful" as much as "necessary" in my case
Absolutely
@emmyhope same
YES. I hate going back to college because at home we have so many pets :(
@justdoingmybest oh no
Depends on the pet, my dog is the right amount of energy to make me laugh and calm when I need cuddles. He's also really good at telling me what he needs when I may not be fully with it like different movements mean different things such as dinner or walks etc.
I'd be lost without my two German shepherds, they are my buddies
Yes I think they do. They give you someone to talk to and get things of your chest. I wouldn't be here if I didn't have my cats. They have snuggled on my lap and sat by me as I have cried into their fur. They give you unconditional love ❤️
❤️yes and no….most of the time yes but when accidents happen which they do and I understand that they just tend to happen when my day is off and struggle cuz of mental stuff the clean up can become upsetting only cuz as I clean I blame myself for this happening
My three cats, two girls & one boy are my companions, especially when my mental health isn't good.
Sometimes, it depends what mood my bears in 😂
462d
Absolutely. I’d be lost without mine
YES 💕
Yes, I don't think I'd be here without my dog. Knowing it's just me and her. She's very cuddly trys to lick away tears, sleeps next to me.keeps my going
One of the only reasons I’m here
466d
Yes, my dog is the one presence in my life who can look at me and make me feel actually loved. Taking care of him helps me take care of myself.
467d
Very much so, my bird's very cute and her chatter melts my heart. Even her chewing things can distract me well enough.
468d
Yes. My emotional support bunny is the only thing keeping me going right now
@spitebun aww
In all honesty, if it were not for my furkids, I would not still be here. They're all rescues but I am unsure of just who rescued who. ☺
Absolutely. I got my dog almost exactly a year ago when I was really struggling with my mental health while in school. Having a dog while you’re still a college student can be difficult, but she’s been so helpful for me and it’s been so rewarding to watch her learn, gain confidence and trust, and start showing more of her personality.
469d
💯% I finally got a dog last year (I’ve always wanted a pug, but I’m allergic to dogs☹️ I finally decided if not now, when? So, I rescued him and he’s the best thing that has ever happened to me!) Sometimes he’s the only reason that I get out of bed-especially for the past few months. I’m always in so much pain and with the cold, dark winter; I’ve become so very depressed- I haven’t felt this bad in a really long time. I doubled my dose of Cymbalta today. I’ve been talking to my doctor about doing this for several months and I’ve tried but the side effects suck. Sorry always end up going back down to 30 mg. I’m praying that this will help my pain, anxiety and my depression 🙏
@Rollergirl aww
I have 3 cats and 3 dogs and I can fully say that they are the most helpful thing for my mental health.
@Loblolly aww
Cats do. The dog I live with can help sometimes, but a lot of the time she makes me way more anxious.
@Mr._Dank cats are lovely
Yesssssss
Definitely. I have seizures and recently I've just had episodes of confusion and being generally disoriented. I lay next to or on my dogs side and just focus on her and breathing for about 10-15 mins, and then I can get focused again and she really helps.
@Stayskz aw
470d
My service dog has been my rock through my chronic illness journey! She makes sure I get outside even when I just feel like laying in bed all day and she’s always there with unconditional love when I’m feeling down ❤️
@E11iefant aww
I put my cat on ever crisis plan I have, so I would say yes.
@Trudie_tootie awww
My brother has a few of them, and I think they help him and I.
yes!! my cat is a great source of serotonin and he motivates me to get up every day, too. i need to make sure he gets food and water, after all, so i might as well make sure that i'm getting food and water too
@avian awww
Yes my dog was my rock. Unfortunately he passed away recently and I've felt lost ever since 😥
@bambipony awww
@bambipony I'm so sorry for your loss. I know that pain all too well. I hope someday you heal and maybe find another furbaby
Of course!!!
@qveenofthecastles agreed
Pets were good for my mental health before ever had issues. Now these amazing precious souls are a necessity in my daily life. I used to be a vet tech, when I was able to work, I miss it alot. But now me and my current dog love the dog park, every one else's dog, most of the time lol and I have massive love for cats, purring is good for the soul
@nsiberian very true
Yes 100%
@shoe so true
Yes 💜
@charntelle agreed
471d
Yes my dog Comet and I are always around each other. She makes me feel so much happier!! 💕
253d
@Sleepy_Mags awww
100% yes. My cat Vixen is amazing for my mental health. I've been very suicidal lately but he's pulled me through just by being him. I love him to pieces and don't know what I'd do without him
@Len that's amazing cats are amazing
@Len Im hear if you ever need a friend to talk to. I was very suicidal last year. It's a very dark scarry place.
Absofuckinglutely they do
All five of mine are the best healing therapy 🐾
@MinouBallerine that's amazing
To be honest I wouldnt be here if my cats werent here
@xhunterjx same
Considering I have 6 (2 Cats, 3 Guinea pigs, and Bearded Dragon), I would say absolutely, its gives me something to care for and they love me regardless.
@Frances92 awww
@Frances92 totally!
YES!! My cat Mocha is the sweetest baby and I feel instantly calmer when he’s around. Taking care of reptiles also gives me a good daily routine to get me out of bed. They’re so rewarding!
3
@SapleMyrup awww
Absolutely, this last year was rough I went from 3 animals to none. One dog died of cancer, one died of old age and my cat she disappeared all around the time I got my tubes tied and got out of an abusive relationship. It was absolutely heartbreaking and my health was impacted. 😥
yesss, my cat, she's the best, such a jerk but she's also so sweet , she was the only constant in my life for a while. Love her
@gatoraid awww
472d
Yeah my dog really helps calm me down and feel better
@BeeMarrie awww
Yes and no. If they're trained yes if not then nooo. I've had both while depressed and a trained pet can really help to get you in a better mood and offer some emotional support. My dog made me go outside every day and I could get fresh air. It also gave me routine to feed her. With the untrained pup, she was adorable but oh my goodness I was spiraling. I cried every day and it really reminded me why I don't want kids.
473d
YES, YES, YES 👍I have cats and one specifically is my 'depression monitor & anxiety controler'. Before I even know I am getting to a point, she follows me and chatters instead of meowing until I sit down. She sits on my chest/shoulder puts her face on my cheek. I wish I could share a pic my husband took of us.🐈⬛️😻🐈
@HelpfulInformation 🥰
474d
Maybe a service dog needs you! 😊 Honestly, I think it's worth giving it a go because they'd be there for the good and bad days.
@mthebrave thank you. This is an ongoing discussion and I'm starting to think it might be worth it. I just don't want to get on the waiting list before someone with bigger needs
@mthebrave @ickyichthyosaur
❤️❤️❤️ how wonderful pets are!
@mthebrave same
Yes, to the point where my mom wants me to get a service dog. I'm not sure I need it enough to justify though
My pets run away from me so I guess not. 💀
Definitely. When im anxious i just hold my cat and push my face into their fur. Breathing deeply into their chest makes me feel so much better
@Feral aww
Yes I love to cuddle with my dog when I feel anxiety It always helps 🤗
@Keeby aww
Yes, but sometimes I get so fatigued or I burnout that I have to push myself to take proper care of them. This usually means a longer pain period or crash in the end :(
Yes <3 they force me out of bed on days when I'd otherwise ignore everything else, and that first chore is always the hardest to get started. Some days I'll even be good enough to ride the momentum of it and get other things done too.
@epiclepsy same
475d
Yes! Two birds here and they help me out of bed every morning. They need food and water and it's my job. Helps make life a little easier when they need you in it.
I really really really want a cat. Becuase I feel like having a pet would make me soooooo happy. Is there anyone from the UK who has a kitten I could adopt?
@JustSmegs yess
@Dominemors so true
Absolutely! Sometimes when I come home I’m a poor mood I’ll take my dog out and immediately on those days she just happens to find a stick and will do the most joyous trot you’ve ever seen. She always lifts my spirits.
@ChronicallyKC aww
No, it had the opposite effect for me. I live in a poor family, that are lazy people, and neglectful towards animals. When I got my dog I had the means of caring for him and his two sisters, but I never got the support I needed to properly raise them (I can't drive and have to depend on others for transportation, so I couldn't just take the puppies to the vet on my own). Anyways since getting my dogs I have gotten into many arguments with my family about their poor behavior, seen countless other dogs in our yard get ill and die due to my family (father specifically), and the worst part of all is no matter what I did to help it never worked out. At this point I'd rather the dogs ran away or peacefully passed, so they no longer have to suffer. I'll never be able to look at dogs the same way after the trauma I've endured.
@Rahja interesting
Yes. My dog is amazing for my mental health!
@I.am.Lucy yesss
476d
YES!!!! Being around animals makes my life so much better. And then there's people...UGH
@Aquarius_Mage same
Definitely, my family dog is the best
@BruceWayne felt
Yes, two of my best friends that kept me going got taken to the shelter by my father in law yesterday and now I don't know what to do, I'm so heartbroken, he is an evil man who hurts people on purpose
@AnxietyGirl79 aww
Absolutely my dog helps me so much ❤️
@Nikki03 aww
Absolutely! My foster cat forces me to have a routine, as even if I don’t want to get out of bed, I have to get up in order to feed her breakfast. I can’t be out too late because she needs dinner. I’m never alone at home because she’s right there with me. Playing with her is a nice distraction, and petting her while she purrs happily is so therapeutic. Or dare I say, thera-paw-tic? Needless to say, fostering a cat has been awesome, I definitely recommend having a pet if you can handle the responsibility and financial costs! Plus, you’d be giving a nice home to a cute little furry baby too!
479d
Yes we have 4 dogs 2 are mine and my fiance's and the other 2 are my brother and sister in laws and they definitely help me when my anxiety spikes and when Im super depressed
@Bunny73 awww
I would say yes they would improve my mental health I kind of would like to have a service emotional support dog at some point.
@Ash.G that's understandable
I used to have an ESA he was tremendously helpful. I think even if you just have a pet it’s helpful!!
Nope, I'd rather have only me to worry about 😂
480d
Sometimes
they do! they help me forget about my feelings and make me feel better
@oddie yessss
They definitely do the job of easing stress and depression, he feels when I’m tense and comes and snuggles up close with me to make sure I’m ok and if I cry he doesn’t like it but he still makes sure I’m ok and tries to give me lots of kisses.
@Cooper_Car_Girl thats lovely
My dog has saved my life ❤️
@lainey1888 awww
Absolutely the unconditional love and cuddles my dog gives me is the best medicine, the lack of judgement animals have is amazing too!
@Hats awww
Yes. My dog and cats give me so much joy and a reason to get out of bed. And a reason to walk when it's not so cold out.
@Red914 thats good
I have 5 dogs plus 2 cats they help my depression but yes I love them my little babies ❤️❤️❤️
481d
Love all the fluffies
@SecondChance I 1000% agree
Absolutely!!
@Kupkake96 same
482d
@Storme25 same
Does anybody have any for contamination OCD? I’ve been wondering but my therapist says it wouldn’t be a good idea at the moment.
@Rayshealth my pets over the years have all been good at like a sustained exposure therapy for me when it comes to contamination ocd
@Rayshealth I have no experience with contamination OCD so do feel free to ignore my suggestion if it's irrelevant/stupid. I would maybe suggest an animal that's relatively clean and is a small animal that has its own enclosure? Maybe a reptile or amphibian.
I’ve got a service dog (for physical issues), but he’s the best for mental health too
@Student_girl awe
Yes yes and yes! My babies get me through, i have 4 cats💕
@luce__ awww I love cats
Yes, my dog is partially-trained as an ESA, so I call her my therapy dog 😆 When I was extremely depressed last summer, her being downstairs was the only reason I would get out of bed most days. Although I live in a college dorm most of the year, I always look at photos and videos of her when I get sad or stressed out.
@YoursTrulyNavy aw
Very much yes, mine is a ESA I love my baby
@FS_cookielove that's amazing
Yes. I have four birds and despite their loudness and bitey-ness, they're super cute and stress relievers.💕
@Amimae awwww
483d
It depends on the day! My guinea pigs and dog are very comforting for me, but some days my motivation is so low and and I procrastinate so much that I'm anxious the entire day (disclaimer in case it sounds this way: I don't neglect my pets even on bad days)
My dog is the only reason I'm still alive so yes 100% they are better than people
285d
@sageblanl yesss so true
Yess yess yess I love animals I have a love bird and he really lives up to that name, I love him so much his name is boobie,, nd he helps me a lot nd makes me happy he loves to snuggle nd he’s soo weird which makes me love him more
@Nal awww
My little bird 🐦 is the sweetest friend. She has helped me a lot, and (since I don't have any siblings), she keeps me company too.
@darkstarrynight awww
My dogs definitely were!! I miss them. Hopefully soon I can have a new buddy. ❤️
@italianxpeaches so sorry for your loss
100% I've got 4 dogs and 3 cats and they have brought me nothing but 1000% joy and support. They make bad days bearable.
@jelly_bean97 awwww
484d
Absolutely! In my college dorm room, I am able to have an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) and so I got a Guinea pig.
@KatGPT awww
Legit have 2 cats, 2 dogs, 2 bearded dragons and a snake, they are my will to live and have been for a long time:) I don't know what I'd do without them
@Mollyisme33 awww
Everybody says dogs are great therapists, I have to say that is not true of my rude old mutt who hates cuddles and leaves if I'm crying but! She does get me to go for walks when I wouldn't otherwise and despite her rudeness I adore her and seeing her face makes me smile. Taking care of my tiny tank pets has been a blessing to me as well, they give me something to put effort into and they are so cute and charming and special.
Yes my puppy is very good at helping me clam down when I am having a anxiety attack she comes to where I am and starts to jump on me I think that's her trying to help my heart rate go down she licks me to distract me she also stays until she knows I'm better and will sit and just let me pet her
Yes but my doggy don’t like to spend all day with me when I require her fluff at all times 😭😭😂
@SuicideShrimp same
Yes. I got a golden retriever to be a therapy pet. She's almost five now and she's saved my life multiple times.
@royalty awww
Life savers for me. The souls I bond the closest to.
My baby boy (an Akita cross) is coming up to 12 now 💕 we've had him since he was 5 months old and he has matured into a lovely supportive friend 💕
@inertplanetary aww
Do you like to breathe? What kind of silly question is this. 😅
@SecondChance true
some days i feel like if i didn’t have my dog i wouldn’t be here
@floatingvibe same
100% my rescue/adopted cat healed the hole in my heart after having to say goodbye to the cat I had had for 17 years last year 🥹💖
@Kittypop awwww
Yes and no, depending on the pet and depending on mine an their mood at the time
Absolutely. My dog is not just good for my anxiety, she helps keep me to a routine and fairly stable. Thanks be for dogs!
@faerywyrm awew
Definitely. 100%. My cat is my comfort. He is the best for cuddles, and highly loveable and his purrs are so relaxing and calming for me. I love my cat, he is (jokingly) my child
@Stormcloud_Phantom awww
👍
Absolutely! I love being with my cats and dogs when I'm sad. They can sense it and cuddle with me to help me feel better.
@bellacourse aww
For me my dog does help me with my mental health.
@Tress same
I have an assistance dog, and excluding the physical tasks she does for me, her presence and willingness to love and help me has improved my mental health beyond words. Truly a life changer ♥️
@DustyPines likewise! 🥰
Yesss. I love my kitty so much. He can tell if I'm having a hard time
@QueenDreamer awww
Yes and no. Seeing my sweep pup and spending time with her is wonderful, but I also worry about her so much. We have taken her to the emergency vet four times already and we haven’t even had her for a year. She also has anxiety and has been prescribed medication.
My dog helps my anxiety so much!
@ThunderBeetle aww
I cat helps me distress
337d
@asc yes
Omg! Definitely! I love petting my cats and spending time with them and just looking at them. I love when they purr. 😻😻😻
@pinky3 aww
100% ❤️🙏
Yes, my cat is very comforting, has the loudest purr, and will pat my face when he’s especially delighted by my stroking his face
4
@Joliz aww
I semi-jokingly call my cat my therapy cat! He's the most affectionate cat I've ever known and he loved to be cuddled. I find his purrs really calming when I'm stressed and his company helps me feel less isolated ❤️ No doubt he's good for my mental health.
7
@tigerbear aww
@tigerbear I have three cats and one of them is always around me all the time. He is the most lovable of all. He always cuddles with me when I sit on the couch or lay with me and cuddle. He is so loving as well! 😻
Definitely help love having my beautiful cat coco around cant sleep properly unless Shes near me aw and the feeling definitely mutual she always sleeping on my head 😴😂😅
6
@yumzy199725 aww
Most definitely! They keep me alive.
@TabbysMom same
@Tay007 same
Definitely, they are pure joy and love and we need that aaaall the time
19
@MaFer samee
@MaFer I agree. Without my pup, I'd have given up this week. She's as you said, pure joy.
@MaFer I agree
☝ This content is generated by our users and it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with your physician before making any medical decision
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