this post was submitted on 15 Jul 2023
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I understand where you're coming from and as a kid that sucks to be responsible for someone who is supposed to be caring for you.
Anecdotally, when I had mild depression I found the responsibility of a dog really helped me. It got me on daily walks and a schedule that helped me mentally. The cuddle part is nice but the responsibility is what I think really helped pull me out of a slump.
It's not for everyone and certainly not if you don't like dogs. Also actually severe mental issues need meds. The dog can't fix what is truly wrong in those cases.
I'm really glad it helped. It's a fairly big coin toss, to choose such a needy animal, and it's the biggest reason I refuse to own one. I'm a lot better around them now than I was as a kid and it would force me outside, but I don't think I could handle that kind of energy every day, multiple times a day, and no dog deserves the level of neglect it might turn into.