Mental and Health Benefits of Having an ESA

Did you know that your pet offers several benefits for your health and well being? For years, countless research has been conducted to analyze the relationship between animals and humans. Most people often adopt an animal for companionship and entertainment. After all, animals can be so adorable! However, it has been proven that your pets are more than just your adorable babies. In fact, your pet can also double as your Emotional Support Animal (ESA) who can provide support and comfort. Discover how can an ESA positively impact your life by reading our post below.

Helps Reduce Your Anxiety

Anxiety is a common mental health condition that is unfortunately experienced by several people across the globe. Studies have found that positive human-animal interaction can reduce fear, anxiety, and other psychological stress. If you want a way to lessen your anxiety or alleviate the physical symptoms of anxiety, getting a trained Emotional Support Animal is an effective option. Apart from anxiety, your emotional support animal can help you manage stress, depression, loneliness, and even social isolation. 

Builds Up Your Self-Esteem

Your self-esteem is an important part of your mental health.  If you want to be physically fit, you first need to have a strong belief in yourself and your capabilities. Medical experts from Certapet assure that an Emotional Support Animal can provide comfort and a sense of security which is vital in building a high level of self-esteem. Poor self-esteem correlates to depression, anxiety, and other mental health discussions. When you have an emotional support animal that keeps you confident all the time, not only will you avoid experiencing mental health issues but you will also improve your overall quality of life.

A Healthy Heart

Have you noticed how you always feel better when you pet or cuddle your animal friend? Researchers have found that interacting with your Emotional Support Animal can improve your heart health.  Because of the soothing and calming effect that an Emotional Support Animal offers, you will be able to decrease the risk of cardiovascular diseases. When you have a positive interaction with an animal, you become more relaxed and your heart rate will be reduced. In turn, you will be able to maintain lower blood pressure.

Encourages Social Interaction

Social isolation and the feeling of loneliness has several negative effects on anyone. After all, you are wired to connect as a human being. Without a healthy social interaction or human connection,  the risk of suffering from mental and other health problems increases. When you have an Emotional Support Animal, on the other hand, you will be able to become more social which is vital if you want to improve the quality of your sleep, boost your immunity, improve your cognitive function, and many more. Keeping one will help you overcome social awkwardness and become more open to other people.

Encourages Social Interaction

Become More Physically Active

Part of a healthy lifestyle is becoming physically active. Too tired to go to the gym? Not a problem. Having an Emotional Support Animal will add a sense of structure to your daily routine. The responsibility of keeping one will keep you moving all the time. This can range from small walks at the park to a quick run. As you become more physically active, you will also reduce the risk of other heart diseases and become more physically fit. 

Helps Manage Stress Better

High levels of stress can lead to serious health conditions including diabetes, high blood pressure, and more. When it comes to managing stress, touch and movement are found to be effective. In relation to that, it has been observed that just petting or interacting with your emotional support animal can help you relax and even alleviate symptoms of post-traumatic stress. 

Source of Emotional Support

A traumatic event can definitely make or break you as a person. The road to recovery may not be an easy path but if you are trying to cope with a difficult and traumatic situation, an ESA can be a big help. They are known to help people let go of resentment, anger, and negative feelings which has a positive and significant impact on your mental health. Aside from that, having emotional support from an animal can also help you secure emotional stability and an overall improved mood.

Aside from companionship, an emotional support animal can provide several benefits that can positively impact your overall health. This can range from trauma support to improve physical fitness. Overall, if you want to increase your quality of life, having an emotional support animal is definitely worth it.