Would an Emotional Support Animal Help with Anxiety and Depression?

100% I've had my cat charlotte for 7 years and there's not one day I don't thank her for everything she does, she has done miracles for me and she definitely senses when things ain't right whether it's my migraines or depression.

I would love a dog but work would make that hard. A dog doesn't judge and loves you for what you are. So I suppose my answer is yes, if you've got the time to care for it. 💕

In general, pet ownership is associated with positive mental health outcomes. There's even literature that observing fish relieves anxiety (as a fish owner, I definitely experience this). Obviously it depends on the individual and on your situation, but there are many ways to experience the benefits of pet therapy if you are interested without the commitment of a large animal like a dog or cat.

I think this really depends on you as a person, your environment, and stability. I was able to get my psychiatrist at the time write me a letter for an ESA (for an apt complex) and I decided to get a cat. At the time I was in college living with several roommates. One of my roommates had an issue with my cat (after previously agreeing to it) and I ended up sending him to live with my parents because the situation was causing my anxiety and stress to be elevated. For me personally, having an animal that depends on me for survival causes me stress and anxiety because some days I feel incapable of taking care of myself, much less another living thing. I have decided that having an animal is not good for my anxiety because it mostly just serves as a extra stressor in my life. All this being said, I think ESAs are great for people who need that extra something to keep them motivated or to give them something to focus on. I think they are beneficial if you have the means to take care of one and a healthy environment for them to live in. I know my experience I shared was kind of negative - but again it was MY specific experience and I wanted to share. Ultimately it’s your choice as you know yourself best! Just spend some time thinking about it and don’t rush to do anything.

I had a doctor recommend a dog to help with my depression. I have trouble getting out of bed in the morning and leaving the house in general so he said a dog would help me out with that. It is a big commitment though and currently I'm not in a position where I can own one. Make sure you have the right environment for whichever kind of emotional support animal you're bringing in. If it doesn't seem possible right now, maybe spend more time with relatives who own a calm pet you can be around.