Emotional support animals (ESAs) are pets prescribed by a licensed mental health professional for those with disabling mental illness. While emotional support animals are commonly cats and dogs, any animal can serve in this capacity, such as a bird, rabbit, or reptile. Caring for the animal benefits a patient’s mental health.

All participants in a survey by the Assistance Dog Center (TARSQ) and CertaPet reported that having an emotional support dog improved their quality of life. ESAs increased feelings of security, independence, and energy, reduced stress, and enhanced sleep. They provided motivation, structure, joy, and companionship and fostered social interactions. These animals also helped participants reduce panic attacks and handle work obligations.

People with disabilities in the labor force face higher unemployment rates, work fewer hours, earn lower incomes, and accumulate less wealth than those without a disability. According to 2022 data, the unemployment rate for American workers with disabilities is twice that of people without disabilities.

Individuals with disabilities also can encounter several barriers when looking for employment. Workplaces can be inaccessible and lack assistive tools or technologies as well as systems, services, and policies to accommodate employees with disabilities. They may also experience stigma at work.

n 2022, the cost of raising a child in the U.S. to age 17 was roughly $17,000 per year. For families of children with disabilities, that estimate runs far higher.

The costs of such necessities as health interventions and behavioral therapies, assistive technology, medications, child care, and sensory-friendly items can mean parents raising a child with autism to adulthood will pay about $60,000 annually, according to nonprofit Autism Speaks. Depending on the severity of the child’s disability, those costs can easily escalate further.

Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) who meet certain criteria outlined by the Social Security Administration (SSA) may be able to secure public benefits that can offset these costs to some degree.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. As a spectrum disorder, ASD impacts individuals differently and to varying degrees. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about one in 36 children have autism. Over a third of children with autism experience intellectual disabilities.

Many parents of children with autism worry about what could happen if they can no longer provide care and financial support. Improving financial literacy is essential for many with autism in gaining independence and preparing for adulthood.