A dog for emotional support
If you suffer from debilitating anxiety, get an emotional support dog. It will help you reduce your stress levels and increase your peace of mind. An ESA dog will offer support with no strings attached. Dogs bring a lot of joy to people. Many people get these assistance dogs specifically for companionship. Having a dog is a great and easy way to strike up a conversation with strangers.
Dogs have been proven to be an effective stress reliever for people. However, owning a dog may not be as easy for many people as it may seem at first glance.
Discover a sense of trust
People with social anxiety fear shame, criticism and judgment. They find it difficult to maintain close relationships with others. An ESA dog is free from criticism and judgment. It can help take the first step toward creating open and sincere relationships. Looking into a dog’s eyes is the best way to increase your connection and trust.
This connection will help you open up avenues that have been closed due to social anxiety. Knowing that you can connect with a living creature will alleviate some of the fears caused by anxiety.
Gain more confidence and purpose
Because dogs are loved and trusted unconditionally, you will feel more responsibility. The dog will depend on you for companionship, food and exercise. This will give you a reason to keep fighting the challenges you face. According to recent research, having a goal reduces anxiety and stress levels.
When you pet your dog, you feel comfortable. Spending a few minutes with your dog raises your oxytocin levels and lowers your cortisol levels. This is why many employers hire therapy dogs to promote the mental health and well-being of their employees during stressful periods at work.
Anxiety
Taking an outdoor walk with your dog is one of the best ways to improve your mental health. However, many people may find it difficult to find motivation to walk around the neighborhood because of their anxiety and fear of running into someone they know. Loving a dog can motivate a person to get out of the house and interact with other people.
You should let your ESA dog be your friend on hikes and runs for daily motivation and reinforcement. The dog will definitely enjoy it.
Encourage natural companionship
Dogs are great workout friends. They can always help strike up a conversation when needed. Talking to strangers while walking your dog will prepare you for longer conversations. You might meet a dog lover you know in the park and strike up a conversation about your furry friends. Such lighthearted conversations will help you overcome your fear easily.
According to many studies, you are much more likely to start a conversation with a stranger when you have a dog. Having an emotional support animal can help you overcome social anxiety much faster.
Still, social anxiety can be quite severe. If you prefer to stay at home, you should talk to a mental health professional about getting an emotional support animal. The specialist will ask you some questions to determine if you need an emotional support animal before giving you a letter.
Get connected with a licensed healthcare professional to obtain an ESA letter
