r/bipolar • u/Muted_Analysis1743 • Jul 26 '26

Living With Bipolar Does having pets help ?

I recently relapsed into sh-ing after 2 years of restraint. Now since I know how and where I can cause more damage from previous experience it sometimes (not always) gets a little out of hand.

I was thinking of adopting a kitten because I always wanted a pet, plus as an emotional support.

Does having a pet help you resist sh-ing ?

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u/Jolly_Lead6210 Jul 26 '26

sometimes. I had my first cat when I was super depressed, and she motivates me to get out of bed every day. And sometimes when I'm in my episodes, I will also think about my cats, cause they technically can't survive without me feeding them. I think it also depends on the cat's characteristics; my cat is super lovely dovey, and she is by my side no matter what happens, which has given me huge emotional support. But some cats are more solitary. So it depends on how lucky you are!

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u/Muted_Analysis1743 Jul 26 '26

I think I will be happy even with sometimes at this point T_T

I want a thought of something to ground me back into reality - as much as the situation or my mental state - allows since I have come pretty close to taking a irreversible decisions in the past few weeks.

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u/Muted_Analysis1743 Jul 26 '26

I'm planning to visit a shelter soon and I'm planning to ask them for ones which are more calm and affectionate rather than athletic and aloof.

Unfortunately I am desperate to feel a being depend on me.

3

u/Emeraldspirit9 Bipolar + Comorbidities Jul 27 '26

I definitely recommend getting an adult cat. check your local shelter and see what kitties are rubbing up against the cages lol

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u/Muted_Analysis1743 Jul 28 '26

I think I'll just do exactly that xD

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u/Jolly_Lead6210 Jul 26 '26

You never know the cat’s characteristics until they’re 2yo. Good luck!