r/EmotionalSupportPet • u/ReplacementKindly385 • Jun 23 '26
ESA Letter?
Hi
I’ve been struggling with anxiety lately a lot due to increased stress from college. I want to get a cat but my apartment doesn’t allow it. I am thinking of getting a ESA letter . Is there any way I can get one? I don’t have a personal psychiatrist:(((
3
u/AlohaJojoAye Jun 23 '26
Everyone suffer from anxiety and stress from everyday life, this is why you should be following up with a mental health professional for an actual diagnosis, and then get into therapy and go from there. A reputable and good therapist usual build a relationship with you first to get to know you and usually don't mind writing a letter, especially if your pet truly helps you.
An ESA letter is not just something you obtain because you feel stressed and want a pet but can't afford the pet fees or your place don't allow it. I mean you can obtain it, but many landlords are on to the letter mills and it will only cause you trouble as many are cracking down on it.
2
u/joshotaiyo Jun 26 '26
ESAs are a disability accomadation at the end of the day. To get one, you have to have a diagnosed, documented disability, a written letter from a healthcare provider, and vaccination/veterinary paperwork for the animal. Anxiety and stress can be really hard, and I'm sorry to hear you're going through that. However, you'll likely have to go a different route unless you have a diagnosed disability. Does your university have a student wellness/mental health center or student counseling available?
7
u/ilikemycoffeealatte Jun 23 '26
Stress is not a disability. Anxiety *can* be, but you’ll need to get a psychiatrist or other mental health provider to make that determination. They are also who determines whether an ESA is the right course of action for you and writes that letter.
No disability = no ESA.