Millions of people around the world suffer from mental health problems such as anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The pandemic has made it even more challenging to deal with symptoms and might even have amplified some of these conditions.

Having a dog or pet can help your mental health in many ways. This is why service dogs are often an option for PTSD treatment among veterans and other populations.

Even if your dog isn’t a service dog, here are some ways they can help improve your quality of life.

1. Being in the moment

Caring for a dog can help you get out of your head and into the present. Learning to practise mindfulness can be valuable in improving your mental health.

This could be whether you’re simply petting your dog and relishing the moment, or taking your furry friend for a walk while enjoying the sunshine or scenery.

2. Stress relief

Studies show having a dog can reduce stress, which is why many employers let dogs come into the office.

Dogs are often used as part of therapy as they can promote more happiness and fewer negative emotions.

Interacting with a pet can reduce cortisol, the stress hormone, and increase dopamine and serotonin, the happiness hormones.

3. Exercise and the outdoors

Spending time with a dog can encourage you to exercise because your four-legged companion needs it. Exercise is a good way to improve every area of your physical and mental health.

When you’re walking your dog, you can lower your blood pressure and boost feel-good neurotransmitters in your brain.

Being outside in nature can also help relieve your stress, boost your mood, and encourage creativity.

4. Socialisation

Having a dog is a good way to meet other pet owners and people in general, whether you’re out and about at dog parks, or simply walking along the streets of your neighbourhood.

5. Purpose

Having a sense of purpose can improve mental health. If you’re retired with children who have left the nest, you might feel like you’ve lost some of the purpose you once had.

Pets can be tremendously beneficial in this area. You have an animal that depends on you, and you have the responsibility of caring for them. This can help improve your self-esteem and provide a sense of accomplishment.

6. Children benefit, too

Children experience mental health conditions as well, and being around animals can help them manage these symptoms. Studies show that children with pets have lower levels of stress and anxiety.

Dogs also teach them about responsibility, companionship and loyalty.

Of course, you shouldn’t get a pet if you don’t think you can manage it. But if you’re considering whether or not to get a dog, remember that it will be highly beneficial to both you and your furry companion in the long run.

Dennis Relojo-Howell is the founder of Psychreg. Connect with him on Twitter @dennisr_howell.