Hello everyone, I’m Miasa from japan. These days I’m cheerfully making pet cushions.
But I once experienced depression triggered by pet loss. In this post, I’d like to share my personal journey.
After my beloved dog passed away, I found myself easily stressed and was eventually diagnosed with depression.
My Experience: Symptoms
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I felt a persistent sense of loneliness, lacked energy, and couldn’t focus on anything.
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I had trouble sleeping—either finding it hard to fall asleep or waking up in the middle of the night.
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I lost my appetite and continued to feel unwell over a long period.
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At first I thought these were normal reactions, but learned they are common symptoms of depressio.
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I also noticed that food lost its taste, my memory became foggy, and I felt a choking sensation in my throat.
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Moreover, I became anxious about interacting with people, sometimes crying suddenly in bed or feeling hopeless.
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My judgment and physical strength declined, and I spent many days in a dark and low state, often unaware until someone pointed it out.
Around Two Months Later
Even after two months, my family still felt grief. My sense of time became distorted—I couldn’t tell if weeks had passed or if it was only days. I realized I understood intellectually that my dog wouldn’t return, but I couldn’t emotionally accept it. I kept replaying questions: “Did I do enough to care for them? What if opening the door finds them there again?” The pain wasn’t just the loss—it was the denial that made it so unbearable.
Seeking Medical Help
Since no pet-loss specialists were nearby, I went to a general psychosomatic clinic. What prompted me to go: on a whim, I took an online health self-check, and over an 80% score suggested possible depression. That scare led me to visit the hospital the very next day. Even before reaching the clinic, tears welled up—I felt I’d reached my limit.
At the hospital, the doctor asked standard questions: “Are you sleeping? Are you eating? Do you have sudden crying spells or bouts of panic?” Based on my answers on the checklist, I was diagnosed with depression.
Medication
The doctor prescribed a mild antidepressant called “Balance”. It’s gentle and considered safe, especially to avoid the risk of overdose or dependence. A friend recovering from depression advised me to use medication sparingly—taking it only when absolutely necessary. The key is to work closely with a trusted physician.
My Path to Recovery
1. Slow Rest
Early on, I could barely even take a walk. It was important to rest without exertion—pushing myself only worsened my condition. Occasionally, meeting neighborhood dogs lifted my spirits—one encounter even with a Newfoundland (the same breed as my Muck) brought such relief.
2. Memorial Rituals
Visiting my dog’s grave or creating an altar helped more than I expected. Even years after his passing, simply placing flowers or saying a few words at his grave would soothe me and make me feel connected. Setting up an altar and surrounding it with memorial items offered a space where I could freely express my grief—cries and all.
3. Soothing Daily Habits
Gentle things like forest walks, basking in morning sun, and meeting close friends on good days helped my mood gradually lift.
On the other hand, hurtful comments from others—such as “just move on already”—often hurt deeply. I learned that it’s okay to feel down, to stay in bed all day, or to break crying at night. I comforted myself by looking at the stars at night—those moments often led to better sleep and calmer mornings.
Recognizing the First Step
Recovery began the moment I acknowledged I was depressed, went to the hospital, told my family, and asked for some rest. That alone began to shift something inside me.
Supporting Others
As I resumed work—listening to many clients share their own grief—I noticed a pattern: once they can name their pain and speak about it, healing often begins. I receive follow-up messages from clients later saying things like, “Thank you, I feel so much better.” The hardest cases are those who can’t cry, can’t ask for help, and hold everything inside. If you have someone you trust, even just talking helps.
Timeline of Recovery
Everyone’s path is unique. For me, returning to normal life took about four years. Time doesn’t “heal” everything, but gradually, step by step, things improve. I hope you’ll take it slowly, at your own pace. And remember—your pet is watching you from heaven, waiting for you to smile again.
Final Thoughts
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Recognize when grief crosses into depression.
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Seek help—whether medical or pastoral.
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Rest when needed.
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Small rituals like grave visits or altars can provide unexpected comfort.
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Healing thrives in supportive relationships and honest self-care.
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Time and patience are your allies.
I know the pain is deep and real—and your love for your pet shows the amazing bond you shared. May each day bring a little more peace and a little more happiness.
I want to overcome pet loss / How to overcome my pet loss
Customers cheered up with memorial goods