Evening Emmy. I love the term 'velcro dog', very apt, I must say. Does your husband work shift work? Yes my little dog keeps me company when my husband is not around as well. He used to be away a lot, travelling etc, and Charli was my constant companion. Still is, for that matter, even when hubby is around.
I think that would be a fantastic idea to have your dog as an official 'assistance' or 'service' dog. They are being used officially more and more for all sorts of reasons these days. I dont know what is involved in organising the official bestowing of the tag on him, but it would surely be worthwhile. I expect he's already very well trained, so training is unlikely to be the issue. Of course red tape is a pain, but an necessary evil I'm afraid.
Yes Emmy (thanks for asking) I do have a thread of my own. Its in the Long Term Support section and titled "Am I opening up a Pandora's Box?". I suffer from PTSD and have panic attacks too, so I understand how distressing they can be. Typical of most people with PTSD, I have extreme anxiety and bouts of severe depression. I know nothing about AvPD, but am interested in learning more from following you and your thread.
I believe that the lack of self care you spoke about earlier today, is very common for people with depression. I know when depression hits me, I feel as though I have no energy at all in which to do anything. And even if I did, I simply do not have the interest in doing so. This carries through from hobbies or jobs we normally enjoy, right through to very basic everyday self care tasks. I can definitely relate to you on that, and would certainly not judge anyone for that.
I have been to Hawaii, but quite a long time ago now. I loved it. Did you get to the Big Island of Hawaii when you were there, where the volcano is?
You mentioned that you are feeling very tired tonight. Please do not feel obliged to respond tonight. Try to have a relaxing evening and get an early night if possible.
Amanda