Your own mental health matters
As many of you know,I've struggles with various aspects of my mental health over the last 5 years. One thing I've discovered is that my health often directly correlates to Vertigo's well-being as well as, let's be honest, how annoying I find him and how naughty he is!
There are a few reasons this tends to happen, and it all leads to a vicious cycle.
One, being stressed simply makes me more sensitive. I may be tired or worrying about other things, and mildly annoying behavior such as being too playful will quickly get on my nerve. Which of course in turn, makes me more frustrated with his behavior. Two, when I'm not doing well I struggle with setting time aside for him. He gets fewer walks, fewer stuffed kongs, fewer snuggles, and fewer training times. In turn he gets amped up and more frustrated.
Three, dogs pick up on our emotions and we pick up on theirs. SO when either of the above begins to happen, Vertigo starts to get anxious due to my own anxiety, and when he's anxious he acts out, and when he acts out... you get the picture.
So what's the solution? Sometimes, you simply need to take a step back from the cycle and practice self care.
Take a few minutes when you feel tense around your dog to stretch your muscles and roll your shoulders.
If you can, schedule a massage, float, or acupuncture.
Talk to a friend, either about your dog or about your other struggles.
Contact a counselor or therapist. This is not just for people with "big issues".
Take a step back from your dog if you need to. Ask a friend to walk them, send them to daycare, or board them for a weekend.
When you've taken care of yourself, you can jump back in with a healthier mind and solve problems faster. Your dog will still be waiting for you and ready to get started when you get back to them.
And remember, you are not alone.
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