Dog Owners And Depression
Dog owners are less likely to suffer from depression than non-pet owners are. Even for those people who do become clinically depressed, having a pet to take care of can help them out of a depressive state of mind. In some cases, a pet is more effective than medicine and there are no side effects. Depression is hard enough with all the advice to take medication and to put yourself through rigorous therapy treatments to try to find your way back to the bright side.
Depressed Dog Owners Taking Care Of Their Pet
Taking care of a dog requires a routine and forces a depressed person to stay at least a little active. It is hard to stay inside feeling down all the time when your dog is asking you to take him/her for a walk.
Love Received From A Dog
The interaction with and love received from a dog can also help a depressed person to stay positive. Even the mere act of looking at their pet increases the amount of Oxytocin, the “feel good” chemical, in the brain.
Recovery From Depression
One way for a dog owner dealing with depression can play a role in their recovery is to talk to and hug their pet. This is one of the ways to soothe, calm and re-energize you.
Your Dog As Part of Your Support Team
If you have mild to moderate depression, adding a pet to your therapy, team can be a worthwhile source of support. Obviously, you must be capable of caring for the pet if you are going to be responsible for a pet but even for those with more severe depression, animals can still be a source of comfort.