A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Can dogs help with depression?

Best Answers

Hugging floods our bodies with oxytocin, a hormone that reduces stress, and lowers blood pressure and heart rates. It's not surprising, then, that stroking a dog can lower blood pressure and heart rate and boost levels of serotonin and dopamine. read more

More than any other animal, dogs have evolved to become acutely attuned to humans and our behavior and emotions. While dogs are able to understand many of the words we use, they’re even better at interpreting our tone of voice, body language, and gestures. read more

Touch can actually stop certain regions of the brain from responding to threat clues. It’s not surprising, then, that stroking a dog can lower blood pressure and heart rate and boost levels of serotonin and dopamine. 5. Dogs make us responsible. read more

Depression might make you want to avoid other people, but pets can open up your world. Studies suggest pets help you get to know people, spark friendships, and build your support network. "Dogs and babies are the things that connect strangers together. read more

Companionship can help prevent illness and even add years to your life, while isolation and loneliness can trigger symptoms of depression. Caring for a living animal can help make you feel needed and wanted, and take the focus away from your problems, especially if you live alone. read more

Encyclopedia Research