Cats and Dogs

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

Related posts:
Animals, love and bipolar disorder treatment!
Play with your animals! Even when you're depressed.