Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, and heart. It is typically caused by exposure to asbestos, a mineral commonly used in construction materials until its health hazards became known. Mesothelioma is a devastating disease that can have a profound impact on the patient’s mental and emotional wellbeing.
For mesothelioma patients, emotional support animals (ESAs) can provide comfort, companionship, and support during a difficult time. ESAs are pets that have been prescribed by a mental health professional to provide emotional support to individuals with mental health conditions. They are not the same as service animals, which have been trained to perform specific tasks for individuals with disabilities.
ESAs can come in all shapes and sizes. They can provide a range of benefits for mesothelioma patients, including:
Reducing stress and anxiety:
Mesothelioma patients often experience high levels of stress and anxiety, which can worsen symptoms and affect their quality of life. ESAs can help reduce stress and anxiety by providing a calming presence and a source of comfort.
Improving mood:
ESAs can provide a sense of companionship and unconditional love, which can help improve mood and reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Providing motivation:
Mesothelioma treatment can be physically and emotionally exhausting, and patients may struggle to find the motivation to continue with treatment. ESAs can provide motivation and encouragement to keep going.
Offering distraction:
Mesothelioma patients may spend a lot of time focusing on their illness and treatment. ESAs can provide a welcome distraction from these thoughts and help patients focus on the present moment.
Enhancing social interaction:
ESAs can help mesothelioma patients connect with others and enhance social interaction. This can be particularly important for patients who may have limited social support.
While ESAs can provide many benefits for mesothelioma patients, it’s important to note that they are not a substitute for professional medical treatment. Patients should continue to receive medical care and follow their treatment plan as prescribed by their healthcare provider.
Mesothelioma is a difficult disease that can have a significant impact on a patient’s mental and emotional wellbeing. Emotional support animals can provide comfort, companionship, and support during this challenging time.
There is a great article by Laura Wright, (lead Editor of Mesothelioma Hope) that you can find here. https://www.mesotheliomahope.com/blog/support-animals/
If you or someone you know is struggling with mesothelioma, consider talking to a mental health professional about the benefits of an ESA.
