A new American study suggests smokers are more likely to quit the habit to safeguard their pet’s health than their own.

I recently came across another study that suggested one of the top-ten reasons people buy a dog is severe depression. Perhaps the two studies combined give us an idea on how to deal with suicidal thoughts. In solitude, the depressed mind cannot motivate a healthy lifestyle change; but with a pet about the house, it is doable.

It might seem like a small thing, but often enough bad habits—such as overeating, inactivity, and smoking—are linked or caused by depression, which in turn creates a downward spiral resulting in an even worse state of mind. I think being able to kick a bad habit can bring much-needed self-confidence.

Another good thing about buying a dog is that you are forced to leave the house at least a few times a day, which many people suffering from severe depression do not do by themselves without an external motivator. Taking a few short walks outside is good not only for the body, but for the mind as well.