My Mental Health Story
For most of my life, I have been fighting an “invisible” battle known as mental illness. Managing more than one mental illness diagnosis makes things even harder. Getting by is far from easy, especially when you are trying to manage suicidal ideation on top of the diagnoses you already have. I have always felt that something was missing from my life but identifying what that something was always proved extremely difficult. Little did I know that years later this “something” would be an emotional support animal named Dakota. Emotional support animals truly do save us from the darkness.
The Search For Dakota
Dakota is currently my emotional support animal who I eventually hope will become my service animal. I met him on November 20th, 2020, and instantly knew he was the one. I had been searching for months prior to finding Dakota since this process is far from easy when you live in a college dorm. Most shelters do not want to adopt dogs out to college students that live in the residence halls — despite my need for a life-long companion. Colleges are also very specific about what kinds of animals can come to campus as emotional support or service animals, so this process seemed never-ending. Despite living through what seemed like an eternity without my companion, one shelter finally came through and for that, I am forever grateful.
First Encounters With Dakota
When I first met Dakota, he was anxious and hiding in the corner of the room. He would not come by anyone in the beginning, but he chose to open up to me within the first five minutes. This felt amazing because I know that trusting someone is not an easy thing to do. I understood Dakota and he understood me. That was how I knew that he was the one when I first laid eyes on him. I always like to say that eyes tell a story, and I knew Dakota’s story within those first few minutes because I lived it myself. He knew that too and decided to show me that he did by becoming my new best friend. I am thankful that he trusted me.
Dakota The Hero Dog
Ever since I brought Dakota home, he has not left my side. Wherever I go, he goes. Despite me liking my alone time, he knows that I need him there constantly even though I have trouble admitting this myself. When I am alone, I tend to fall into the trap of thinking negatively, which often leads me to self-harm or contemplate suicide. Now that I never get a moment of privacy, these thoughts have lessened. Dakota also provides endless cuddles, which helps elevate my mood whenever I am down. When I cry, Dakota makes sure to sit on my lap and comfort me by licking my face. He knows that I need him without me even saying the words. Dakota understands when it seems like no one else does. He is a great comfort for me and I love him ever so dearly.
Together We Will Overcome
Dakota has truly helped me heal. I was extremely nervous about getting an emotional support animal at first because I never had a pet before, but I am so glad I faced my fear. He is the greatest blessing this life has to offer. I strongly encourage anyone that feels lonely, anxious, or fearful to get an emotional support animal because they become everything you have ever needed. Pets truly are a gift, especially the ones that understand your pain. Dakota and I are helping each other heal from past trauma, and that is one of the best experiences of all. Together we will overcome!
