Hello

[Quiet_Creature]

I'm new here. I have a lot of issues going on in my life but my anxiety is one of the biggest that I face. I have bad social anxiety, possibly agoraphobia too. I have to force myself to go places. I have tried medications which seem to only help short term before I become immune to them even when the dose is upped. So I'm thinking that is the wrong route for me in treatment. I have been researching Service Dogs and how they help. It sounds like my best option. I have always had dogs growing up, I feel calmer around them and have been training them since I was a child helping my father train his hunting dogs. I am having issues finding a provider who is on the same page as I am about going with a Service Dog as apposed to typical medicine. I also have medical issues which I believe a Service Dog could be helpful with on top of my mental issues. I would love to hear from others who have opted for Service Dogs with or without medications. Have a great day!!!

[Hidden]

Hello and welcome. I think a service dog sounds like a wonderful idea. I hope somebody with knowledge of them will come along soon.

[Daisymom]

Wonderful idea! My dogs save my life a little bit every single day. I do not tend to take them with me as official service dogs only because it’s harder for me to have to watch after them But if that would help you get out more ... do some research and find someone who will prescribe it... I know in my area everybody and their brother walks around with a service dog LOL. Or a puppy is a great idea because they require so much attention you just don’t even have time to think about your anxiety running around cleaning up Pee and Removing things from their mouth all day long. The unconditional and pure sweet love from the dog is where a lot of us on the site knew that we don’t find from the people in our lives. I suggest getting a puppy today and then finding someone to call it a service dog

[Daisymom]

Wonderful idea! My dogs save my life a little bit every single day. I do not tend to take them with me as official service dogs only because it’s harder for me to have to watch after them But if that would help you get out more ... do some research and find someone who will prescribe it... I know in my area everybody and their brother walks around with a service dog LOL. Or a puppy is a great idea because they require so much attention you just don’t even have time to think about your anxiety running around cleaning up Pee and Removing things from their mouth all day long. The unconditional and pure sweet love from the dog is where a lot of us on the site knew that we don’t find from the people in our lives. I suggest getting a puppy today and then finding someone to call it a service dog

[NWGal]

First, welcome! We're all so glad you're here. I suffer from social anxiety as well. I say, "whatever works" to get you back in the outside world! I would also avail myself of mental health therapy to address the root of your social anxiety. Many times it is a matter of negative self-judgment that keeps us homebound. Working on changing your thought processes about yourself can really help. Good karma friend.