Dogs Can Help Overcome Depression

When I got my dog, Digby, I had no idea how much he would help me with my depression. Standard recommended treatments for depression pretty much never recommend getting a dog or spending time with a dog, but maybe they should.

I'm someone who cares a lot about other people and, consequently, animals. When my depression symptoms hit me hard and keep me feeling really low, I find it hard to take care of myself through exercise, regular meals, or adequate sleep because depression steals my motivation.

Yet when I got my dog two years ago, I found it much easier to motivate myself for him instead. I became excited to take him for walks. I learned that if I timed his meals correctly and took him outside about twenty minutes after eating, he would relieve himself on the grass instead of on my carpet.

A Dog's Routine Can Help Your Depression

After a few weeks of training Digby, I realized I'd started was timing my meals around his meals. With Digby around, I even remembered to take my medication on time. Frequent walks for Digby also gave me enough exercise to realize that exercise really does help my mood.

Meet The Dog That Helped My Depression

After having Digby for two years, I now realize he helps me with all kinds of things besides getting out of the house and having regular meals.

Digby makes me laugh, which is obviously a great way to fight depression. He requires me to be calm and assertive when I give him commands because if I'm grounded, he behaves better.

Being grounded is like being in the moment, where dogs live. Have you ever met a dog who is embarrassed about that mistake two days ago? Me neither.

To Beat Depression, Love Yourself the Way Your Dog Loves You

Digby isn't a harsh judge if I make a mistake; he loves me no matter what. No matter how awful I'm feeling about myself, Digby looks me in the eyes with a love so strong that even my hard-set self-criticism starts to falter. Digby reminds me to give myself a break and just have fun.

To help with your depression, I recommend just finding a way to spend time with a pet. Definitely do some research before committing to getting your own pet to make sure you can handle the constant care they need. If a dog seems like a good fit, find a breed that suits your lifestyle and go from there.

For less commitment, visit with a friend's pet or look for therapy dog programs in your area. Even watching some animal videos on YouTube will give your spirit a lift.

Animals are wonderful. Let them into your life.

You can also find Erin Schulthies on Twitter, on Google+, on Facebook and on her blog, Daisies and Bruises: The Art of Living with Depression.