Specially trained therapy dogs can help to make dealing with the symptoms of depression and anxiety easier. Mental health professionals have used therapy dogs for years to support the treatment of depression, anxiety, PTSD and other mental disorders.
Sense of purpose
People suffering from depression often feel that their life has no purpose. This
lack of purpose often results in a general lack of motivation. A service dog can help an individual to find purpose in caring for the dog. Knowing that another living being is depending on you for their physical and emotional well-being can help to find motivation even when feeling depressed.
Panic attacks
Therapy dogs can be trained to recognise the onset of a panic attack. They can be trained to use passive methods, for example blocking strangers, that will help to make the panic attack less severe and help individuals to regain their composure more quickly.
Unconditional love
The non-judgemental acceptance and unconditional love of a dog can help greatly to overcome depression and anxiety. People suffering with depression and anxiety can be very lonely, and the companionship and loyalty of a therapy dog can safe them from their darkest moments.
