Did you know that animals can be a vital asset in a survivor\u2019s journey to recovery? Emotional Support Animals (ESA) are animals that are designated to provide support, comfort and relieve symptoms of those who have experienced trauma or mental health issues. For survivors, ESA can make a tremendous difference in overall wellbeing and quality of life. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
An ESA is different from a service animal, and both require different certifications. A service animal is an animal, typically a dog, that has been extensively trained to provide support to and guide disabled people through their daily tasks. ESA are any kind of animal and they provide emotional and mental support. Learn more about the certification process of ESA here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Survivors of sexual assault and\/or abuse are at a higher risk of developing depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance use disorders, eating disorders, anxiety, and other mental health issues.1<\/sup> However, ESA can provide a silver lining for those who are struggling.2<\/sup><\/p>\n\n\n\n Many studies have shown that support animals and pets can be powerful tools for survivors and those experiencing mental unwellness. ESA have the ability to help both the survivors’ psychological and physiological health.2<\/sup><\/p>\n\n\n\n ESA have been shown to help with:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Studies have shown that animals, specifically dogs, cause humans to produce more dopamine, the neurotransmitter responsible for happiness. Having an animal companion can boost your mood and encourage you to do things, such as going for a walk, that we may not do if we are going through a bout of depression. Research also shows that cuddling with a dog or cat releases oxytocin, a hormone also associated with causing feelings of happiness.4<\/sup><\/p>\n\n\n\n Having an animal companion or an ESA means that you will always have a friend around. Animals also can increase our social interactions with other people, such as talking to another dog owner at the dog park or joining an online community dedicated to posting about your cat. People love to bond with other people over animals!3<\/sup><\/p>\n\n\n\n Animals can sense things that people can\u2019t and can be our own alarm system. There\u2019s a reason people have guard dogs, a dog often will bark when someone approaches your home or enters your property. For survivors, having this alarm system can make them feel so much safer. Additionally, our pets are more in tune with our emotions than we realize, and may cuddle up with us when they sense we\u2019re sad.3<\/sup><\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s important to remember that these animals are not just pets- they are essential support systems for survivors<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nMental Encouragement<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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Negative Affect<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Social Interaction<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Anxiety and Trauma<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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