Pokemon GO Helping People's Mental Health

Between the walking and all the fresh air, there's some pretty obvious health benefits to playing Pokemon GO. In addition, some players are reporting a less obvious perk to playing the new "augmented reality" mobile app: an immense improvement to their mental health.

Players around the world have tweeted about how Pokemon GO has helped with their depression and anxiety issues. By encouraging players to leave their home and explore their surroundings, Pokemon GO seems to be a great distraction to help players stave off feelings of depression and anxiety.

Real talk - as someone with anxiety/depression, the fact that I've spent most of this weekend outside with friends is unreal. #PokemonGo

— HiRez David (@uglycatlady) July 10, 2016

Srsly though, I haven't felt this comfortable leaving the house in years. #PokemonGO is helping with my anxiety & depression & it's amazing.

— Neil (d'class) Tyson (@TheBabyWitch) July 11, 2016

Pokemon Go has cured my depression and has been what has made me willingly leave my bed for the last two days thanks @Pokemon

— jon bovi (@yeahjordyn) July 8, 2016

Pokemon Go is literally making people with depression and anxiety and agoraphobia leave the house and explore the world and socialise.

— Yo! (@jasonjarmoosh) July 8, 2016

Studies like this one indicate that exercise may have positive benefits for the clinically depressed. Of course, it's probably only a matter of time until someone does a study on the specific health benefits that Pokemon GO provides

Scientifically curious about the numbers of peeps experiencing their depression, social anxiety &/or hopelessness lifting due to #PokemonGO

— Dr. Andrea Letamendi (@ArkhamAsylumDoc) July 11, 2016

Like you know how tempted I am to do a study on Pokemon GO, physical activity, and depression?

— Fleur de LiGrey (@80Grey) July 8, 2016

So has Pokemon GO helped improved your health? Let us know in the comments below!