Can an emotional support animal help you get through difficult and highly emotional times Like drug rehab?
The answer is not simple, as different people may have different needs and preferences when it comes to coping with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, or other emotional difficulties. However, there is some evidence that suggests that having an emotional support animal can provide some benefits for people who need extra comfort and companionship.
An emotional support animal is not a service animal or a therapy animal. It is a pet that has been prescribed by a licensed mental health professional as part of a treatment plan for a person who has a diagnosed mental or emotional disability. Unlike service animals, emotional support animals do not need to be trained to perform specific tasks or assist their owners in public places. They are allowed to accompany their owners in housing and on flights, but not in other places where pets are not normally allowed. There are pet friendly rehab facilities available if you are in need of that.
Some of the benefits that an emotional support animal can offer are:
– Reducing loneliness and isolation. Having an emotional support animal can help you feel less alone and more connected to another living being. You can share your feelings, thoughts, and experiences with your pet, and receive unconditional love and acceptance in return. Your pet can also encourage you to socialize more with other people who have pets or who are interested in animals.
– Providing comfort and security. Having an emotional support animal can help you feel more calm and relaxed in stressful situations. You can cuddle with your pet, stroke its fur, or listen to its heartbeat to soothe yourself and lower your blood pressure, heart rate, and cortisol levels. Your pet can also make you feel safer and more protected, especially if you have experienced trauma or abuse in the past.
– Enhancing mood and self-esteem. Having an emotional support animal can help you feel happier and more optimistic. Your pet can make you laugh, smile, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. Your pet can also boost your self-esteem and confidence by giving you a sense of purpose, responsibility, and achievement. You can take pride in caring for your pet and seeing it thrive under your attention and affection.
– Encouraging healthy habits and routines. Having an emotional support animal can help you maintain a healthy lifestyle and cope better with your challenges. Your pet can motivate you to exercise more, eat better, sleep more regularly, and take care of yourself. Your pet can also help you establish a daily routine that gives you structure and stability. You can wake up, feed, walk, play with, and groom your pet at consistent times, which can help you feel more organized and productive.
Pet friendly rehab is offered at some facilities
Of course, having an emotional support animal is not a substitute for professional help or medication. It is important to consult with your doctor or therapist before getting an emotional support animal, and to follow their advice on how to manage your condition. You should also make sure that you are able to provide a suitable environment and care for your pet, and that you are not allergic or sensitive to it.
If you think that an emotional support animal could help you get through difficult and highly emotional times, you may want to consider getting one. You can choose any type of animal that you feel comfortable with and that meets your needs and preferences. You can adopt an animal from a shelter or rescue group, or get one from a breeder or a friend. You will need to get a letter from your mental health professional that states that you have a disability and that you need an emotional support animal as part of your treatment. You will also need to follow the rules and regulations of your housing provider and airline regarding emotional support animals. Having an emotional support animal can be a rewarding and beneficial experience for both you and your pet. You can form a strong bond with your pet that can improve your mental and emotional well-being. You can also give your pet a loving home where it can feel safe and happy. Together, you can overcome your challenges and enjoy life more.
The House of the Rising Son Offers Pet Friendly Rehab. Call us today if we can help in any way.
