Thank God for doggos!

(Click to shop: Top, Leggings, & Tennies)

I don't know what I'd do without my doggo, Cameron (AKA Cam, Cammy, Camarino, Cambo, Cama Lama Ding Dong, etc.) He brings so much joy to my life, and he helps me in more ways than he will ever know or understand. Cam is my emotional support pet. I originally decided to get an emotional support pup when making the decision to move to the big city of Atlanta to be closer to my long distance boyfriend of 3 years. I was beaming with excitement, but I was also very anxious. I had never lived alone before, I was starting my first full time teaching job, and I was moving to a city where I knew maybe a total of 3 people. I mean...talk about stressful! And so, my mom suggested I get a dog...OK, maybe Cameron is more like a cat, but that's beside the point lol. It was love at first sight. From then on this little squirrel chaser has been my furry bestie. David Holt was skeptical of a "yap dog" at first, but he could not resist that little angel baby face.

Long story short, don't be afraid to admit fear. It is normal, and it is what makes us human. Seek the help you need. Speak to your family, friends, or a certified professional. Emotional support pets are not for everyone, but it was the right choice for me. As a therapist (Yes, I am a teacher, but I am also a certified school counselor and nationally certified therapist), we are constantly told that we must take care of ourselves holistically (mind, body, and spirit) in order to help others. Self-care is key!