Does your Condition Qualify for an Emotional Support Animal?

Do you have any pets? If yes, you know how satisfying their companionship can be for someone. Be it a cat, a dog, or any other animal, the unconditional love and affection they shower you with are just unmatched. You are always happy around them and they make your life so easy going. Indeed, there’s nothing better than having the loyal companionship of a pet with you. 

But did you know your pet can also work as a therapist?

I’m not joking. It’s true. The companionship of your pet can actually help you treat many mental disorders. The pets that help you treat your disorder are called Emotional Support Animals. They are there to provide you with all the love and support that you need and thus help you fight your condition. You just need an ESA letter recommended by a licensed mental health professional to get a pet for your emotional support.

But there are some predefined conditions that qualify you for an ESA. So if you are thinking of getting one, it’s important to know if you qualify for it or not.

Let’s find out.

Anxiety

Anxiety has become very common nowadays. People are always fearful of not living up to their full potential. And this dissatisfaction is causing uncontrolled thoughts in their minds making them over-anxious. Therefore, therapists suggest an ESA for the people who are suffering from an anxiety disorder. The animal distracts the person off the topic and engages him in any other activity such as playing with him or taking him for a walk.

A panic attack is also caused by anxiety disorder due to the person feeling extreme terror, even when there is no real danger. And as you can take your ESA almost anywhere, it can help you with this condition too.

Depression

Depressed people usually seem frustrated and broken. They don’t have a purpose in life. For them, winning is for others. They feel everyone is better and above them.

Mental health professionals claim that an ESA can help alleviate the pain of a depressed person. Pet therapy has always been effective in depression. A pet can give a purpose to the person suffering from depression. The love and support of an ESA can help the person take the first step toward healing.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

This is a condition in which people feel extremely stressed after having a tough time in their life. In the U.S. alone, more than 7.5 million people are suffering from PTSD. A pet can easily keep the person off-topic and thus help them relax. Therefore, professionals recommend an ESA for the people suffering from the condition.

Social Anxiety Disorder

Socializing isn’t for everyone. Some people really like being alone. They can’t talk to people in a social setting and feel really overwhelmed when they have to. This type of condition is called social anxiety disorder.

Going to a social gathering with an ESA can make it much less painful as you are with someone who can make you comfortable. Social anxiety can be cured by having a pet by your side at any social event. If you feel uncomfortable, you can play with your ESA for some time and you’ll feel relaxed.

Phobias

Many people suffer from different phobias. The fear might be of heights or water, or any other thing. Your pet can really help you in an unwanted situation. If you come across something which you fear, you may become very uncomfortable. Your heart rate may rise and you may feel sweaty sometimes. But if you have a pet with you, it can help you ease your stress and make you feel relaxed. 

For instance, if you are afraid of heights but you need to fly somewhere, you can take your ESA with you. This will keep a check on your nervousness.

So these were the conditions that can qualify you for an ESA. If you have one of these, apply for an ESA letter now.