I have never been formally diagnosed with depression or anxiety but through research I have done myself I think I have it. I have panic attack symptoms when I am alone and I have all of the classic symptoms of depression. I have my first appointment with a psychologist on Thursday. I have recently moved out of my parents house where I had a dog. This dog always made me feel better when I experienced my symptoms of depression and I did not have panic attack symptoms when my dog was with me. I am now living six hours away from my parents unable to visit with the dog. There are also no pet friendly apartments close enough to where I work that I could rent so do not tell me to look for pet friendly housing because I have exhausted that option already. I want my psychologist to write a note for me so that I can get a pet. My landlord said that this would be fine as long as I can get a note. How do I bring this up to a psychologist?
2007-11-11 06:02:43 · 3 answers · asked by gallawson 1 in Health ➔ Mental Health
This is not the only reason I am going to be going to therapy. If I am able to get a pet I will continue therapy. I really feel like a pet would help me get through this and I want my therapist to know that I am not just trying to get the note.
2007-11-11 06:04:06 · update #1
There's nothing wrong with having a dog! They can provide a lot of support. (Non dog or non pet people won't understand this!) But try meeting with the psychologist for a while and getting into an emotional support group too. Dogs can be great companions and "buddies" They love to be with us and help us through difficult times but they can never replace humans. We need people -safe people -that we can open our hearts up to. (Adam need Eve).
PS. I had panic attacks years ago and I must say with great enthusiasm, "THEY SUCK BIG TIME!!!" You feel so out of control, like you're dying! It's aweful!!
2007-11-11 06:09:55 · answer #1 · answered by Lover of Blue 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Good thinking - it's been proven that pets get their owners through crisis situations. The psychologist won't call you a liar, don't worry. He or she will help. You could print out your question and show it to the psychologist if you feel shy about asking for the note. Good luck.
2007-11-11 14:08:51 · answer #2 · answered by jenesuispasunnombre 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Therapists understand that companion pets are very important for some people. Just ask, there is no shame in that!
2007-11-11 14:08:43 · answer #3 · answered by ♥ G ♥ 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋