Woman Refuses To Come Home For Thanksgiving After Family Tells Her To Leave PTSD Service Dog Behind

A lot of people look forward to Thanksgiving not only for the food, the vacation, and all the fun but also for the chance to be with their families again. For some people, it's the only time or holiday they get to be with their families.

Unfortunately, it isn't always so simple for everyone. There are some people who can't just go home and be welcomed with open arms.

Sadly, for some of these people, their families' demands make going home a little complicated when it shouldn't be. And that's just the case for Redditor Fine_Adhesiveness167.

She was expecting to at least make her family happy by accepting their invitation for Thanksgiving dinner, however, right when she thought she wasn't going to be facing any issues, her family asked her to do something she couldn't. That is to leave her PTSD service dog behind for her sister's sake.

The thing is, OP actually needs her PTSD service dog because of the emotional neglect she suffered from her family. Sadly, her parents don't seem to understand this and think she could just leave the dog behind since it's not assisting with a physical disability.

Here's the whole story behind all this drama.

OP asks:

Fine_Adhesiveness167

OP's parents want her to leave the dog behind for the sake of them being all together as a family

Fine_Adhesiveness167

However, OP absolutely needs her PTSD service dog to last her through the visit

Fine_Adhesiveness167

The Importance of Service Animals

Dr. Anna Roberts, a clinical psychologist specializing in trauma and service animals, explains that a PTSD service dog is much more than a pet; it’s a vital part of the individual's support system.

Research published in the Journal of Traumatic Stress indicates that service dogs can significantly reduce anxiety and improve quality of life for those with PTSD.

This highlights the critical need for understanding and respecting the role these animals play in their handlers' lives.

The Role of Service Dogs in PTSD Treatment

Service dogs play an essential role in the treatment of PTSD, providing not just companionship but also a sense of safety and stability.

Research indicates that the presence of a service animal can significantly reduce anxiety and improve emotional regulation for individuals who have experienced trauma.

This highlights the importance of acknowledging the profound bond between service dogs and their handlers, which is often misunderstood by those outside the experience.

The Role of Service Animals in PTSD

PTSD service dogs are specifically trained to assist individuals coping with trauma, highlighting the critical role of animals in mental health recovery.

According to research published in the Journal of Traumatic Stress, these animals can help mitigate symptoms of anxiety, depression, and emotional dysregulation.

Having a service dog can significantly improve the quality of life for those with PTSD, providing both practical assistance and emotional support.

Despite all the explaining OP has done, her father thinks she should just "suck it up" for one night

Fine_Adhesiveness167

It's frustrating enough for parents not to understand what they've done or not done properly for their children as they're growing up but it's more frustrating for them to be casting aside what issues their child is facing like in the case of OP. She got the PTSD service dog for a reason and it seems that OP's parents won't even acknowledge that.

They think it's just a simple pet that can be left behind anytime at home but the reality is, it's not. Many people are also pretty frustrated by the situation and are assuring OP that she's not in the wrong here.

Here are the top comments.

1. Maybe completely cutting off contact with the family would be the best thing for OP

Cygnata

2. If they only agreed with OP's plan, everything would be fine

mortgage_gurl

When a person is asked to leave their service dog behind, it can evoke intense feelings of helplessness and distress, which can be counterproductive to their mental health.

Studies show that individuals with PTSD often rely on their service dogs for emotional regulation and security.

Understanding this connection can foster greater empathy towards individuals who require these animals for support.

Dr. Emma Sinclair, a clinical psychologist specializing in trauma, explains that the relationship between a PTSD patient and their service dog is built on trust and mutual support.

Studies show that service dogs help individuals navigate stressful situations, often acting as a buffer against overwhelming stimuli.

This dynamic is crucial for many individuals, as it allows them to engage more fully in daily life.

Dr. Angela Roberts, a clinical psychologist specializing in trauma, emphasizes that the bond between a service dog and its handler is profound.

Her research points to the importance of this emotional connection in fostering safety and stability for individuals dealing with trauma.

Such relationships can serve as a foundation for healing and recovery, providing a sense of purpose and companionship.

3. The parents could be the one to suck it up for once

Zenpora

4. OP should spend Thanksgiving with people she's actually thankful for

Expert-Aardvark7419

5. Spending Thanksgiving alone seems like a much better choice than going back to the situation that caused her PTSD

xennial_kid

The Psychological Impact of Displacement

Displacing a service dog can trigger trauma responses, reinforcing feelings of vulnerability and anxiety.

Dr. Michael Simmons, a psychologist at Duke University, notes that attachment bonds formed with service animals are crucial for emotional stability.

Research indicates that breaking these bonds can lead to significant psychological distress and exacerbate symptoms of PTSD.

Understanding the Emotional Challenges of Leaving a Service Dog

Asking someone to leave their service dog behind can evoke strong emotional responses, often tied to feelings of abandonment and loss of safety.

Research in attachment theory highlights how individuals with PTSD may develop a deep emotional reliance on their service animals, making separation particularly distressing.

Understanding this emotional bond is essential for fostering empathy and support in social situations.

Family Dynamics and Understanding

The conflict surrounding the refusal to leave a service dog behind for family gatherings reflects deeper family dynamics and misunderstandings about mental health.

Studies indicate that families often struggle to understand the needs of members with mental health conditions, leading to tension and conflict.

This disconnect can stem from a lack of education about the importance of service animals in supporting mental health.

6. OP's dad is actually anti-scientific with the way he's acting

babygween

7. It's cruel to tell OP to just suck it up for a day when her family is the very reason she needs the dog

justlookin-0232

8. With the way they're treating OP, it's obvious that they will not change their behavior with her

_anupu

Moreover, insights from Dr. Angela Duckworth, a renowned psychologist and author, highlight that "the presence of a service dog can foster trust and safety, which are crucial for therapeutic progress." This reinforces the necessity for environments that are accommodating to individuals with service animals, thereby promoting mental well-being.

The request to leave a service dog behind can trigger past trauma responses, highlighting the importance of recognizing individual needs in social contexts.

Psychological studies suggest that such requests can inadvertently activate feelings of vulnerability and fear, as individuals may feel unsupported during critical moments.

Creating environments that honor the needs of individuals with service animals is vital for promoting mental well-being.

Promoting awareness and understanding within families can help bridge these gaps and foster empathy for those living with PTSD.

Open discussions about mental health and the significance of service animals can encourage supportive family interactions.

9. If they didn't want to be upset, they should've have kept pushing with what they want and disregarded OP's needs

[deleted]

10. They can suck up OP's absence for one Thanksgiving with the way they're acting

embopbopbopdoowop

11. It's her parents' choice not to understand so they should deal with the consequences

SavingsLife1142

Practical Solutions for Inclusivity

To foster inclusivity, it’s essential to advocate for policies that recognize the importance of service animals in therapeutic contexts.

Education and awareness campaigns can play a significant role in changing public perceptions and ensuring individuals feel safe and supported.

Implementing training programs for businesses and public spaces can help create environments that embrace service animals, ultimately benefiting everyone.

Practical Suggestions for Supporting Individuals with Service Dogs

To foster a supportive environment, communities can implement educational programs that raise awareness about the importance of service animals.

Encouraging open discussions about the roles of service dogs can help demystify their presence and reduce stigma.

Furthermore, creating guidelines that respect the rights of individuals with service animals can enhance community understanding and acceptance.

Strategies for Family Education

To alleviate tensions around service dog usage, families can benefit from educational resources that explain the role of these animals.

Workshops or family counseling sessions can provide a platform for discussing mental health needs and the critical support service animals offer.

Building awareness within family units can lead to stronger support systems and reduce misunderstandings.

12. OP gave them a solution but they didn't want it so it's their loss

HunterDangerous1366

13. OP's parents might not be able to accept that they were the root cause of OP's condition

miyuki_m

OP has every right to spend Thanksgiving with people who make her feel safe

miyuki_m

Ultimately, a deeper understanding of the vital role service dogs play can lead to more inclusive communities.

By promoting awareness and supportive practices, we can enhance the quality of life for individuals relying on these important companions.

This aligns with principles of social responsibility in psychology, highlighting our collective role in fostering supportive spaces.

Support groups for individuals with PTSD and their service dogs can also provide a valuable network for sharing experiences and coping strategies.

Research indicates that social support is crucial for emotional resilience, particularly for those navigating the challenges of PTSD.

These groups can empower individuals by reinforcing their rights and enhancing their confidence in public interactions.

14. It seems like OP's parents are entitled to her presence in Thanksgiving

theflighttest

15. OP's PTSD service dog is a non-negotiable companion to her

dragonsandanime

It would be better for OP to stay away from situations that might be a trigger

dragonsandanime

The Importance of Empathy in Public Spaces

Encouraging empathy and understanding in public interactions can lead to more respectful communities.

Psychology emphasizes that fostering empathy can significantly improve interactions for individuals with disabilities, allowing them to navigate social situations with dignity.

By promoting awareness of the challenges faced by those with service dogs, we can create environments that support inclusivity and understanding.

16. Maybe it's OP's parents that need to have a better attitude

salukiqueen

17. Other Thanksgiving plans would be so much better than going home

teresajs

18. OP's parents can't have it both ways all the time

Necessary_Device_227

Ultimately, this situation underscores the need for greater awareness and compassion in our communities.

Understanding the profound bond between individuals and their service dogs can lead to more supportive interactions, enhancing the overall well-being of everyone involved.

By fostering a culture of respect and inclusion, we can contribute to the mental health and happiness of individuals with PTSD.

19. OP's mental health problems are real and OP's parents need to realize that

corgihuntress

20. It's better to keep boundaries than be traumatized all over again

columbospeugeot

As most of these comments have said, it's better for OP to find another way to spend Thanksgiving rather than going back to the source of her trauma since it's clear that her parents don't acknowledge what she's dealing with. Thankfully, in an update, OP did say that a neighbor invited her to their Thanksgiving after hearing about her situation.

Hopefully though, if her family ever wants to be with her on Thanksgiving or any other holiday for that matter, they should respect her needs too. And they should acknowledge the part they played in it and somehow make amends.

What do you think?

Psychological Analysis

This situation highlights a significant misunderstanding regarding service animals and their vital role in mental health recovery.

It's essential for families to educate themselves on the importance of these support systems to foster understanding and empathy.

Analysis generated by AI

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

The dynamics surrounding service animals in family settings reveal the necessity for education and understanding about mental health.

By fostering open communication and awareness, families can create a more supportive environment for individuals coping with PTSD.

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

Clinical psychologists affirm that understanding the role of service dogs is essential for fostering supportive environments. According to Dr. William Doherty, family therapist, "Creating a culture of understanding and empathy is crucial in supporting individuals with disabilities." He emphasizes that "awareness is key to reducing stigma and improving the lives of those who rely on service animals." Establishing such a culture can significantly enhance the well-being of individuals with service animals.

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

Research underscores the critical importance of service dogs in supporting individuals with PTSD.

Studies indicate that understanding the role of these animals can enhance public support and reduce stigma.

Thus, fostering awareness is essential for creating inclusive environments that prioritize mental health and well-being.