Life can be tough. And at times, it really can get tougher. The icing on the cake is when you’re already having a hard time, and the world around you also seems to be closing in.
Thankfully, there is help. Below, we give you our three biggest tips for getting emotional support when times are hard.
Tip #1: Look Into Support Animals
Maybe you’re thinking about getting a support animal and you need to know how to ask a doctor for an emotional support animal. Or perhaps you already have an animal you rely on. Either way, animals can be amazing companions because:
- They allow you to take care of them—This can be pivotal in emotional healing because it takes the focus out of the situation and into helping someone else. Taking a mental break from what’s ailing you can prove to be soothing.
- They take care of you—Animals recognize you’re taking care of them and, in turn, they offer care back. Some even get physically and emotionally closer to you when they know you’re suffering. They may not verbalize it, but they’re intuitive creatures that understand something is hurting, and they want to be there for you.
- They offer you unconditional love— As you create a bond with your pet, you’ll notice this animal simply wants to be with you. They’re not there to judge you, just to love you and follow you everywhere you go.
Tip #2: Try a Support Group
This option is great and, at the same time, it can make someone feel super vulnerable. This is because when you enter a support group, you’re allowed to share with others your emotions, including your pain.
However, because you’ve entered a space where everyone is bringing the matter to the table, it can feel really safe. Oftentimes, you don’t even have to actively participate until you’re ready. Before jumping into a group and figuring out if this is for you:
- Ask yourself, “Am I ready to share my story with others?” Sit with this question and feel your answer. Be gentle with yourself. Don’t jump in if you don’t feel ready. The last thing you want is to intensify your pain.
- Picture yourself in a room with a few people talking about what hurts. Feel how this sits with you. Sometimes imagining the setting before you get there can help bridge your inhibitions for when you are ready to physically commit to the group.
Tip #3: Seek Out Professional Help
We’ve heard of the “Winter Blues.” Well, there’s the blues and there’s something more than the blues. If you feel like your situation is beyond temporary, seek professional help.
There are professionals out there that work with different situations – counsellors, therapists, psychiatrists, and more. Do some research and find the right one for you. These professionals are trained to help you overcome mental distress or illness. Sometimes, certain things are simply beyond your control. You may need that extra bit of assistance to help you mitigate the space you’re in.
In Conclusion
Being human has its ebbs and flows. It’s important to have support and know who’s in your corner when life flows in unexpected ways. Whether it’s a support animal, a support group, or a trained professional, look for that lending hand (or paw) that will help your emotions settle during hard times.
In all situations, if you feel like your emotions are headed to place from which you’ll need help recovering, seek professional help first. Consulting with a trained professional may then lead you on your way to a service pet or talk group.
