© iStock

Depression - Depression is a serious and debilitating mental illness that affects more than 300 million people worldwide.

© iStock

Depression - It can cause severe symptoms, affecting how people think, feel, handle daily activities and tasks, and perceive the world around them.

© iStock

Depression - Fortunately, depression can be treated in many different ways, including with medication and psychotherapy.

© iStock

Dogs and depression - The beneficial effects of pets have also been significant when it comes to treating depression.

© iStock

Dogs and depression - Dogs can help with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and many other mental health issues, providing daily support and unconditional love to their humans.

© iStock

Dogs and depression - Dogs motivate their human to partake in physical activity, which in turn releases powerful mood regulating neurotransmitters, like serotonin and dopamine.

© iStock

Dogs and depression - Physical touch, such as petting, cuddling, and playing with a dog, has also been found to release serotonin and dopamine, and lower stress levels.

© iStock

Dogs and depression - Dogs help their humans to get out of the house and meet new people, which can go a long way in relieving the isolation and loneliness that often accompanies depression.

© iStock

Dogs and depression - Dogs can even work as service animals, providing emotional support in settings such as hospitals, schools, and nursing homes.

© iStock

Dog breeds - Click through to learn which dog breeds take the cake for helping ease the burden of depression.

© iStock

American Staffordshire terrier - This sweet companion is smart, loyal, and compassionate.

© iStock

American Staffordshire terrier - They love to play and are naturally comforting and protective.

© iStock

Border collie - This dog is perfect for anyone struggling with motivation to stay active, as they are incredibly high-energy dogs.

© iStock

Border collie - They are also incredibly intelligent, loyal, and love to cuddle. 

© iStock

Cavalier King Charles spaniel - This gentle dog is affectionate, easygoing, and has a medium energy level.

© iStock

Cavalier King Charles spaniel - They are content to snuggle on the couch or go for walks. 

© iStock

Golden retriever - This popular dog breed is playful, sweet, and smart.

© iStock

Golden retriever - They are generally good tempered and laid-back, making them a great breed if you have kids or other pets.

© iStock

Havanese - Outgoing, friendly, and energetic, this small-sized dog will be your biggest fan.

© iStock

Havanese - They are low maintenance and make great companions.

© iStock

Labrador retriever - This big breed is incredibly smart and sweet.

© iStock

Labrador retriever - Additionally, they are loyal, eager-to-please, and highly trainable, making them a happy-go-lucky dog that brings a smile to anyone's face.

© iStock

Poodle - Poodles get highly attached to their human and love being around them, making them great companions for anyone living with depression.

© iStock

Poodle - They are also highly adaptable, playful, and live longer than many other breeds.

© iStock

Pug - This charming, playful, and well-mannered breed is a great pal to have around.

© iStock

Pug - Their even temperament and loving personalities make them a great choice for anyone dealing with depression.

© iStock

Sighthounds - This breed, including greyhounds and whippets, are huge snugglers and couch potatoes, despite being bred for racing.

© iStock

Sighthounds - They are incredibly calm, affectionate, and even-tempered.

© iStock

Yorkshire terrier - Besides being absolutely adorable, yorkies create strong bonds with their human and are very loving.

© iStock

Yorkshire terrier -

They also make great emotional support dogs, as they are small and easily transportable.

See also: Dogs that help humanity.

© iStock