Why an emotional support animal is beneficial for depression?

Depression is a serious mental problem that affects around 10 million adults in the USA alone and 320 million all over the world. There are several types of depression, such as bipolar disorder, major depression, and so on. And different treatments/anti-depressants are available as well to help ease symptoms of depressive disorders. But one of the lesser-known and better treatments is an Emotional support animal (ESA).
An ESA is a companion animal that helps to relieve the negative symptoms of a person’s psychological or emotional disability by just being present there and provide comfort and support to reduce their emotional distress.

Mental health benefits of Emotional Support Animal

There are a lot of mental health benefits that can show you why an ESA is beneficial for depression. Doctors are now recommending to their patients who suffer from:

• Aerophobia (fear of flying)
• PTSD
• Mild to severe anxiety
• Stress-induced situations
• Depression
• General Anxiety Disorder

See here: Why a stressed person should register an emotional support dog?

If you or your loved one suffers from a mental illness, then ESA will really helpful too:
• Provide social support
• Make patients feel more safe and comfortable
• Increase in being social
• Provide unconditional love

Overall, there are many advantages to have an emotional support animal. It does not necessarily mean that they solve all your problems but can be a good alternative to keep you calm and help to overcome depression when you are alone.