The Skinny on Emotional Support Animals
When it comes to mental health, you can never do too much to
take care of yourself. As we have become more aware of a wide range of mental
health disorders, we have also made major strides in treating them. In recent
years, there has been a rise in the popularity of emotional support animals or
ESAs, and there are many good reasons for it.
Dogs are some of the most common support animals, and they
have proven to have myriad benefits for those suffering from a variety of
disorders. An ESA is an animal that does not have to have specific training
under the Fair Housing Act, which entitles individuals who have been prescribed
them with certain housing accommodations under the law. (The U.S. Department of
Transportation no longer recognizes ESAs as service animals based on the
Service Animal Final Rule).
What is an Emotional Support Animal?
An ESA, is an animal that can be used to help provide relief
for those who suffer from mental and emotional issues. Anxiety and depression
are some of the most well-known disorders for which ESAs are prescribed, but
they are far from the only ones. Animals can also help people who have been
diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), panic disorder, or
insomnia.
As previously mentioned, dogs are the most commonly seen
ESAs, but others do exist. Cats are also regularly prescribed, and even pigs,
ducks, and monkeys have been used as ESAs.
Is an ESA a Pet?
It is important to understand that an ESA is not a pet.
While both ESAs and pets can provide companionship, pets are not prescribed to
people with psychological or emotional disorders. An ESA is used to provide a
variety of therapeutic benefits, though it can also offer companionship. While
most people can get pets, an individual must be diagnosed with a mental health
disorder to qualify for an
To get about more info :-
.
What Benefits do an ESA Provide?
ESAs can bring a calming and relaxing presence to those with
anxiety disorders or PTSD. They have been shown to bring quick therapeutic
relief to those suffering from panic attacks or who have specific phobias that
render them unable to perform day to day tasks. Many people who suffer from
anxiety or depression often feel lonely and helpless, and simply having a
support animal around can reduce these uncomfortable feelings.
Physical contact with the animals can also help keep
negative thoughts at bay. Many of these animals can sense when their owner is
exhibiting symptoms of anxious behavior, and they will seek ought their own for
petting or cuddling to help to soothe them.
The importance of physical activity for those with emotional
disorders should not be understated. Exercise can play a major role relieving
uncomfortable symptoms. ESAs can provide the motivation for one to remain
active. Even something as simple as feeding a dog can provide enough of a
distraction to help with anxiety. A long walk around the neighborhood can be
even more beneficial. A built-in benefit to this is exposure to the sun, which
can boost vitamin D levels. That alone provides major benefits in stabilizing
one’s mood and warding off depressive episodes.
Click here to get about more info :- psychotherapeutic counseling
Conclusion
ESAs have assisted individuals with mental or emotional
disorders in improving their quality of life. To qualify for an ESA, an
individual must have an evaluation from a licensed mental health professional.
Azz-ert Urself! LLC MindSET Coaching & Counseling, founded by Dr. Danita
Morales Ramos (aka Dr. D) has a network of licensed mental health professionals
qualified to conduct evaluations to determine the appropriateness of an ESA for
mental disorders. Click here for more information.
Comments
Post a Comment