In college we make a lot of decisions; some good, most bad. However, recently I made a profoundly good decision, surprising as it may be.
For quite some time I have suffered from anxiety and severe, immobilizing panic attacks. It's not something I share often, so consider yourself "in the know".
Over the past year however, both my anxiety and panic attacks increased at an alarming rate, to the point where it had begun to affect my daily life. It's not something I am necessarily proud admitting. I have always been a grossly independent individual, and coming to the realization that I needed help was a tough pill to swallow.
Upon seeing a therapist and multiple discussions with my parents, I refused to accept any prescription medication for my conditions.
However, with this refusal came another suggestion: adopt an emotional support dog. I have always had a real connection with animals, finding comfort in their constant love and affection. So, at this suggestion, I decided to give it a shot.
It has been, by far, the best decision I have made in college thus far.
I was hesitant at first, nervous of the extra responsibilities that come with having an animal on campus, especially a dog. To this day, I am still amazed with how easy the transition of bringing my beloved pooch to campus was.
Sure, I have to make sure he was food/water and is taken out around three times a day, but those times can be molded in whenever I come back to my room from class. Besides, the amount of joy and support my dog brings me far exceeds the amount of time it takes out of my day to take him for a quick walk.
Animals truly are wonderful creatures. They love you despite all flaws. They provide a sense of stability and comfort that no medication can match.
There is nothing puppy kisses cannot cure. Ever since I chose to bring my ESA to campus, my anxiety and panic attacks have substantially decreased. I have more energy, more drive and passion for life, and a reason to smile every day. My dog is my "magic cure".
Seeing the dramatic changes in myself since my decision to bring an ESA to campus have inspired me to share how my life has been positively impacted, with the hope that another individual struggling with their own mental health battle may find this as a solution as well.
College is tough. Life is tough. Mental health is important, and sadly it is not stressed enough in a college campus atmosphere.
Therefore, I will continue to be an advocate for ESA support on college campuses. It is truly a wonder what a smiling puppy face or a purring kitten can do when it comes to brightening a person's day, or their whole mental outlook.
My dog has improved my life dramatically, without question. What could an ESA do for you?
