My dog already helps my anxiety, but I’m learning the ESA letter is more about legal support Other pets

I’ve had my dog for a while now, and without even thinking about labels like ESA, I’ve noticed a real difference in how I feel day to day.
On stressful days, just being around him makes things feel more manageable. There’s a sense of calm that I didn’t expect when I first got him.

Recently, I started looking into ESA letters, and what surprised me is that the letter itself doesn’t “create” the emotional support. That part already exists. The letter seems to be more about officially recognizing that support, especially in situations like housing where pets might not normally be allowed.

So now I’m seeing it as two separate things: the emotional benefit itself, and the documentation that makes it recognized in certain situations.
For those who’ve gone through it, did you feel the same way? Or did the process change how you viewed your animal’s role?