Bipolar Disorder Resources

You think you are behaving quite normally, right? Next thing you remember is waking up in a hospital bed for reasons which you possibly cannot remember.

Living with bipolar disorder is a 24/7 “catch 22” situation. You are well aware that immediate treatment is required when you slip into mania or hypomania. However, being able to recognize the symptoms yourself is often difficult and sometimes impossible. Staying in control of bipolar disorder is much easier when can count on early warning of your symptoms.

Have you ever considered getting a service dog to help with controlling your bipolar disorder?

Controlling Your Bipolar With A Dog?

It is well known that dogs are very tuned in to human beings. Guide dogs for the blind have been around since World War II. Dogs are also trained to help the deaf, paraplegics and all sorts of other disabilities. Dogs are very social animals, and have been known to take care of their own disabled canine friends. Even wolves have been reported doing this. A dog is therefore a logical and patient companion who can help with controlling your bipolar disorder.

The Benefits Of Having A Dog

Pets can be a great help in taking the focus away from our own troubles. Many studies have shown that dogs boost morale and confidence in patients with a range of physical and mental problems. Service dogs trained in controlling your bipolar disorder have special skills which enable them to recognize symptoms such as a panic attack. When such an attack occurs, a trained dog will not leave or allow you to harm yourself.

Service dogs have also been trained to push a phone speed dial button to make an emergency call to 911 (in England, 999) in circumstances such as seizures or overdoses.

All this aside, the main benefit of any dog – whether specially trained for controlling your bipolar symptoms or not – is that they are there as a companion and source of joy and warmth for you. They let you complain as much as you want and still greet you with a vigorous wag of their tails. This undying loyalty from your dog can often be the inspiration you need to look after yourself better.

How Much Does A Service Dog Cost?

Whilst service dogs may be on the expensive side, they still cost less than a pool, expensive designer wardrobe or a new car. All of these things are temptations for the impulse buying urge which can occur during manic phases.

Service dogs come in all shapes and sizes, from Yorkshire Terriers to massive Bloodhounds. You can contact the Psychiatric Service Dog Society in Arlington, Virginia by visiting their website or calling (517)216-1589.

If you are a bipolar sufferer, do yourself a favor and get some canine help for controlling your bipolar symptoms. You are sure to enjoy it!