Service dogs for depression 🐶

How can they help?

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LET'S TALK Q Can a service dog help with my depression? And how do I get one? A Yes, a psychiatric service dog can be trained to offer support and perform a wide range of tasks to help someone with depression. The dog may be able to help with the following tasks: remind you to take medication bring you a phone during a crisis so you can contact support call 911 or any other preprogrammed emergency number for help identify and help with medication side effects provide tactile support when you're overwhelmed prevent emotional overload at home provide an excuse to leave a room with a discreet signal if you feel upset To qualify for a service dog for depression, you must have a letter from a licensed mental health professional stating that your depression prevents you from performing at least one major life task without assistance on a daily basis. You must also be able to: participate in the dog's training pay for maintenance and veterinary care for the life of the dog independently command the dog If you don't qualify, you may still be eligible for a nonservice animal, such as an emotional support animal or therapy dog. To learn more about eligibility, qualifications, and ways that service dogs for depression can support your well-being, read our full guide below. Is a service dog right for you? If you'd like to request a specific topic, offer feedback, or chime in with your answers to our weekly questions, feel free to email us at newsletters@healthline.com. We look forward to connecting with you and supporting you on the path to mental well-being. TRY THIS Find the Path for You Everyone's experience with mental health is different. Get on a path that works for you with personalized symptom information and management tips. Learn more MORE RESOURCES Find support for your journey Finding a therapist has never been easier Search by specialty, condition, or location to match with a mental health professional who meets your needs. Find care Browse our mental health marketplace Explore our top picks for products, apps, and other tools that can help you manage anxiety and depression symptoms. Shop now READ THIS We picked these articles just for you Is Your Relationship Toxic? Signs and How to Cope Read more > 14 Tips to Manage Work Stress and Avoid Burnout Read more > What to Know About Repressed Emotions Read more > Mindfulness Tricks to Help Reduce Anxiety Read more > Shop products Get care Shipping info View in browser Unsubscribe Privacy policy We may feature your messages to our inbox within our content. Please do not provide any personal identifiable information. Replies may be edited for length and clarity. For more, see our Privacy Policy. Healthline, Optum Now, and their respective logo(s) are trademarks of RVO Health, LLC. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. © ‌2026‌ RVO Health, LLC. All Rights Reserved. ‌1101‌ Red Ventures Drive, Fort Mill, SC, ‌29707 ‌