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Some may say the Holidays begin with Thanksgiving and past New Year’s. But Halloween in the US is a big family event, and countries such as the UK enjoy gatherings on 5th November. Your dog can help you get through some of the most lonely times when you feel lonely or depressed.

Getting You to Go Outside

The benefits of physical exercise are well documented. But when you feel isolated and lonely, just getting out for a walk can be very challenging. But you will feel better if you go outside. A dog like a Red Setter Irish Setter gives you a reason to take a walk in a local park. But even a walk around the block is enough to feel the benefits of exercise and get some fresh air. Your dog will love you for it, and you can spend the rest of the day cuddling and caring for each other.

Providing Comfort and Security

Not everyone enjoys celebrations in the same way. If you have an anxiety disorder or a form of autism, the things that make others happy can cause great distress. For example, your neighbors might let off fireworks during holiday celebrations. Many dogs are also naturally scared of these sounds, but so are some people. However, your dog can be a great source of comfort and strength when you feel like the world around you is getting a little too much.

Your Dog Can Help with Depression

Depression is more common than we initially thought, thanks to new data over the past few years. Fortunately, this has raised a greater awareness of mental health issues. However, you might still have to wait for treatment and the help you need. According to one survey, around 47% of dog owners agree their dogs help with depression during holidays. A dog is like a silent friend who never judges and is always there to put a smile on your face at the worst times!

Talking to Other People

Some people are social butterflies, and others have a tough time talking to others, including family members. When you don’t speak to other people a lot, it is easy to kid yourself into thinking you don’t need to socialize. But this isn’t true. Loneliness is linked to issues such as obesity, depression, and even diabetes. But having a dog forces you to get outside. While outside, you might strike up a conversation with another dog-walker, even if you don’t initiate it.

Something for You to Focus On

An anxious mind is distressed because we run negative scenarios in our heads over and over. This doesn’t do us any good and can result in the subconscious manifestation of the things you repeatedly think about. But a dog requires care and attention. During the holidays, when your mind is racing over time, a dog can be something for you to focus on. It helps to focus on taking care of the grooming, bathing, going for a walk, or making a dog-friendly holiday dinner!

Summary

Getting outside for exercise and fresh air is just one of the ways your dog can help you through the stress of the holidays. Having a dog will lower the chance of holiday depression and help you deal with it in a constructive way by ensuring you have something positive to focus on.