"Not only do pets help relieve stress, but they can also improve your mood, control your blood pressure, reduce loneliness, and provide social support—all of which are important for health and well-being, and for avoiding stress and depression that can lead to relapse." Want to read more?

• That being said, try spending more time with your dog, cat, horse, etc. Make time for it. If you don't have a pet, find an animal shelter and volunteer. One of the great things about volunteering is that you can specify what you want to do e.g. only walk dogs, only feed cats and clean cages, etc. You're in control! Another option is visiting a pet shop.

❝Until one has loved an animal, a part of one's soul remains unawakened.❞ -Anatole France