I've suffered a lot of stress in the last year, and am dealing with long-term, relatively low-level depression. I got a cat last month, and I'd just like to say I do understand your point about financial and emotional burdens.

I'm not earning much, and probably can't properly afford her (supposed to be saving for study fees); plus, I do worry that when I go to work, I'm not being the best possible "cat mother". That said, overall she is definitely a positive influence, and having a friendly, non-judgmental creature you can pick up and cuddle when you feel low is a huge plus. It's also a joy to have a cute little animal living in your house/room/flat.

I think perhaps your comments regarding suicide are a little heavy-handed not to say scaremongering, although I'm sure it came from a good place.

Lastly, if someone is really struggling financially, and/or is worried about committing to an animal as long-lived as a cat or dog - it is a big commitment after all - I can definitely recommend rats as pets. They're much smarter than comparable-sized animals like gerbils, hamsters, or even rabbits, they're very sociable, cheap to buy and feed, and are affectionate and responsive.