Bipolar Disorder Treatment and Animal Friends
I call my cat Bibi my depression companion. It always amazes me at how much better I feel when I spend time with her. Even when I’m crying and feel I can’t function- I can still pet Bibi!
It is the same with my mom’s dog Cookie. It’s hard to be depressed around her. I have had days were I sit in my mom’s backyard in a depressed stupor- but I always feel better when I see Cookie.
Petting an animal releases endorphins- throwing a ball with an animal increases endorphins! So it makes sense that our animal friends could help us all manage this illness more successfully.
Bibi needs a lot of attention. It’s hard to focus on her sometimes, but I make myself see it from her perspective. She really loves playing with string- even if it feels like a Herculean task to play with her, I make myself do it. I always feel better afterwards.
Is there a pet in your life that can help you feel better?
Julie
it amazes me how animals can create happiness.
For me, Animals have always been someone to love who loves you back regardless and unconditionally.it is such a privilege to share time and space with them….Everyone should be able to have access to a companion animal if they would like one. I feel very sad for people living in rentals or accommodations that dont allow pets. I have a friend who was evicted and had to give up his beloved dog to go live in a hostel…but he managed to get another place and he got the dog back…that literally gave him back the will to live….! 😉