Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes extreme mood swings involving mania, hypomania (elevated moods), and depression. During manic episodes, people may see huge increases in activity, a lack of desire for sleep, racing thoughts, and impulsive or poor decision-making. During depressive episodes, deep feelings of sadness and despair set in. Bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition, but it can be successfully treated with therapy and medication. If you or someone you know is struggling with bipolar symptoms, please reach out to us. At Miramont Behavioral Health, we offer compassionate care for those struggling with mental health disorders.
One question people with bipolar may ask is how much they will be able to live a “normal” life, including holding down a job, living on their own, or having a pet. The answer is that a rich, fulfilling life is possible when bipolar disorder treatment is consistent and well managed. However, it’s also true that untreated bipolar disorder can make it difficult for a person to manage daily responsibilities, including owning a pet.
Does My Bipolar Disorder Diagnosis Disqualify Me From Owning a Pet?
Of course not. A diagnosis alone does not “disqualify” you from any aspect of life. While there is some debate in research communities around the impact of pet ownership on managing bipolar symptoms, most people with mental health issues report experiencing a strong bond with their pets. Other studies provide evidence that shows the benefits of interacting with a pet, especially for people with poor mental health, mental health disorders, or individuals experiencing a mental health crisis.
Whether you are fit for pet ownership will depend a lot on your specific situation and on the type of pet you prefer. Here are some questions to ask yourself when considering if pet ownership is right for you:
- Do I have the time, knowledge, resources, and patience to train and care for an animal for the lifespan of that animal?
- Am I home often enough to provide company for my pet and to let them outside or take them on walks if needed?
- Am I able to afford the cost of care for my pet, such as vaccines, medicines, training classes, grooming, and spaying and neutering procedures?
- Is my living situation adequate for a pet—especially the type I want to bring into my home? For example, do housemates or landlords allow animals? Is the space large enough for the animal to be comfortable? Do I have easy access to outdoor space?
- How would I deal with the eventual loss or death of my pet?
- What are the behaviors, ideal climates, and preferences of the type of pet I’m considering? If my pet happens to be a dog, is its breed especially energetic—or strong? Am I equipped to constantly walk or monitor the dog around other animals and people? Is it built more for hot weather or can it adapt easily to Waukesha and Middleton winters?
- If I pick a cat, am I prepared to allow them their independence and space to play?
Remember, even if you don’t have the funds, space, time, or patience at the moment—that could change in the future. It’s not a negative reflection on you or your mental health status if a pet isn’t right for you.
How Can Pets Help Me Cope With Bipolar Disorder?
For people with bipolar, research shows that pets can boost their quality of life in three major areas: loneliness, physical fitness, and self-esteem. Here are some other benefits pets can bring to brighten our lives:
- Pets can provide unconditional love, creating a sense of much-needed joy and companionship for owners.
- It’s possible to lower stress levels by interacting with or watching your pets.
- Regular pet care routines like dog-walking encourage physical activity, which can improve your heart health.
- Animals naturally emit mindfulness qualities, like attention and compassion, helping you build similar behaviors and cope more effectively with challenges during times of illness, stress, or grief.
- Caring for a pet regularly helps build skills related to discipline and self-management.
If you’re looking for more guidance, education, or tips on how to handle your new bipolar disorder diagnosis or need more resources on managing the disorder, Miramont is here to help. And if, in the end, you feel your personal experience with bipolar makes pet ownership too complicated or challenging, we’re not here to judge you. Rather, we’re able to suggest an array of activities, hobbies, and practices that can help you minimize symptoms and enjoy life to the fullest with or without a pet!
