By Staff Writer: Trinidad Carrasco
For many college students, stress is a normal part of daily life. Between classes, work, and personal responsibilities, it can become overwhelming. That’s where emotional support animals can make a difference.
Unlike regular pets, emotional support animals can provide comfort during stressful moments. They don’t solve problems, but they can help make them easier to handle. Having a animal around can create a sense of calm, especially during long days or late nights working on assignments that make you feel alone, and down in life. There will be a big pair of eyes looking at you thinking you are the most amazing person in the world.
Something as simple as sitting next to an animal or taking a short walk with them can even help clear your mind. It gives you a break that feels important, and not just another distraction. That kind of reset can make it easier to return to work with a better focus, because you feel more accomplished and proactive now in a day.
Emotional support animals also bring routine. Feeding them, walking them and caring for them adds structure to a day that can sometimes feel unorganized. You are now forced to get up early in the morning to get dressed and start your day. This will help you start school early, go to your lectures, and now your whole afternoon is free.
All of this is coming from firsthand experience. I had a rough couple of years in college, especially being online and alone, and it left me feeling down. But I got a new best friend this year, and he has helped me get through burnout and put purpose back into my life. If you need something in your life to give you motivation, love or just company, maybe think about getting a support animal. It was one of the best choices I’ve made.