im having some sort of breakdown but I have a dog

[thenarnianna]

For the last month I have slowly been unwinding and I am currently having some sort of anxiety breakdown I think. I feel incredibly tense especially in my shoulders, very on edge, keep bursting into tears, trembling, tight chest and such an intense feeling of anxiety. I've been barely showering or eating.

But I have a dog. He's young and full of energy and since all this happened I can't cope with him. It's beyond stressful. I'm currently at my mum's and my partner is looking after him for a few days. But I am dreading having him back. I feel utterly sick at the thought of being around his energy and having to look after him. I can't even look after myself right now. I can't leave him at my partner's forever, and he wouldn't cope with kennels. My mum can't take him. I don't know how long I'll feel like this for. I feel like I'm just going to have to give him away but that feels awful too.

What do you do when you're mentally ill and can't look after a pet?

Can you join “ borrow my doggie” it’s where people look after other peoples dogs

or you could ask on your local social media for a doggie foster arrangement

reach out and get all the help you need from the doctor and charities for yourself
wishing you well

@thenarnianna focus on looking after the dog and taking it out. It’s a good way to reset.

Cinammon Trust

Yes I was coming in to say this. They can help with a temporary foster or something longer term if that’s what you need.

If you can't manage any more and it's not likely to be a temporary situation, then you may be best contact a breed specific rescue for assistance in rehoming.

Thank you, I have just looked at the Cinnamon Trust but it says they're only for elderly or terminally ill people ...I'm neither.😭

Ring them and explain your situation. I think they're more flexible than that sounds. I have my cat registered with them and I'm neither.

They definitely do short term fostering too. I’m sure they’ll consider whether they can help you.

Definitely worth talking to the Cinnamon Trust. And if your dog came from a decent breeder they may help. Are you having treatment for your MH?

I think you need to get breaks, can you get a dog walker? I had a period when I was really struggling but then it got easier. Is the dog young? I found if I could muster up the energy to do a decent walk earlyish the rest of the day would be more manageable. On the plus, they can be a real source of comfort

You find someone who can support you first.

definitely contact cinnamon trust, and also local RSPCA/other charities
people are often far more understanding than you think - and even if they cant help you themselves they will have some good contacts?

look after yourself hun, life is hard - its ok to need some help xx

DM me if you want to have a chat