What are the benefits of emotional support animals?

What is an ESA?

An ESA is a domesticated animal that relieves the symptoms or effects of its owner’s disability. Some conditions that are eligible for an ESA include anxiety disorders, depression, schizophrenia and certain mood disorders.

For a person to qualify for an ESA, they must receive a diagnosis of a mental or emotional disorder from a licensed mental health professional (LMHP) and a prescription letter recommending an ESA.

ESAs vs. service animals

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) does not consider ESAs service animals. A service animal is a dog. However, an ESA can be any domesticated animal, including a dog, cat, bird, miniature pig, hamster or snake.

ESA legal protections

Service animals receive different legal protections from ESAs. For example, service animals can typically go anywhere their owner goes, while businesses and airlines can deny entry to ESAs.

However, ESAs have similar housing rights to service animals. The Fair Housing Act states that housing providers must make reasonable accommodations for assistance animals, so housing providers usually can’t deny them (except in certain circumstances).

» MORE: What disabilities qualify for an emotional support animal?

The role of ESAs in mental health

Evidence suggests that pets and, by extension, ESAs can assist people in managing their mental health conditions.

A 2016 study discovered that pets successfully distracted participants with long-term mental health problems (such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia) from symptoms and distressing experiences. Researchers concluded that pets should be a primary source of support for people struggling with long-term mental health problems.

In another study, U.S. military veterans experiencing PTSD reported the benefits of living with a dog. Respondents said they felt calmer, less lonely and less depressed.

Physical health benefits of an ESA

Research indicates that the bond between people and their pets can offer various physical health benefits, including lowered cholesterol, blood pressure and triglyceride levels. It may also enhance cognitive function in older adults.

An ESA provides more opportunities to exercise outside. For example, if you have a dog, you may feel more motivated to go to the park for a walk.

Exercising in nature can improve physical health through decreased cortisol levels, heart rates, and muscle tension. It can also lower the chance of heart disease and boost mental health.

» READ MORE: How to get an ESA letter

Psychological and emotional benefits of an ESA

The company of an ESA can have multiple psychological and emotional benefits, such as reducing loneliness, depression and anxiety.

“Animals and pets provide a sense of companionship and comfort,” said Mindy Altschul, licensed clinical social worker at Hackensack Meridian Health Carrier Clinic in Belle Mead, New Jersey. “Emotional support pets and animals can aid in addressing feelings of loneliness and isolation.”

Like ordinary pets, ESAs require regular attention, feeding and exercise. Providing these essentials may give individuals with mental health conditions a purpose and structured routine.

“The act of caregiving can provide a therapeutic effect that can assist in interrupting overthinking experienced with anxiety or depression,” Altschul continued. “The needs of the pet can serve as a focus outside of one's self.”

Social benefits of an ESA

Pet owners describe a strong connection with their animal companions. They often view pets as family members and sometimes prefer their company over humans. This bond can help fulfill the social need for affection, touch and comfort.

"Emotional support animals go beyond emotional support pets,” Altschul explained. “Carrier Clinic provides equine-assisted treatment that uses horses and other animals to teach anger management, conflict resolution, communication skills and problem-solving."

Research suggests equine-assisted therapy can develop self-regulation, reduce stress and increase self-esteem. One study surveyed the families of patients who received equine-assisted therapy and reported improvements in the patients’ moods, emotional regulation and social interactions.

These important skills can help individuals with mental and emotional disorders build and maintain healthy relationships with the people around them.

» COMPARE: Best ESA letter websites

Bottom line

ESAs provide support to people with mental health conditions. Their companionship may alleviate symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder and other psychiatric or emotional disorders. They can also promote better physical health and improved relationships and social interactions.