Some argue that playing too much video games is bad for your health. We suppose we can understand where they come from as video games can cause us to veg out on our couches or chairs for extended periods of time, and let’s not forget the strain that staring too long at a monitor must be having on our eyes.That being said if you’re looking for an excuse to justify your obsessive playing of Pokemon GO, we have some science for you to back it up with. According to Dr. John Grohol, the founder of mental health network Psych Central, he claims that playing Pokemon GO seems to be doing wonders for people’s mental health.
This comes from users on Twitter who are admitting that they used to suffer from depression and anxiety, but after playing Pokemon GO they are feeling much better. According to Grohol, “The challenge has always been, if you’re depressed, your motivation level is nonexistent. So, you want to go out and get some fresh air, or even take a shower, and it can be a very difficult thing to even comprehend, much less do. I think the impact of something like this, this game, can really be beneficial.”
He adds that since walking around catching Pokemon is a form of exercise, and because exercise has been found to decrease feelings of depression, there is some basis to these users’ claims. “It actually works as an anti-depressant and it has a really, pretty strong effect. It’s probably one of the most beneficial things a person with depression can do, especially if they’re not accessing other types of treatments, such as psychotherapy or medication.”
So, if you are feeling a little down and out, maybe try getting in a session or two of Pokemon GO, the fresh air and exercise could do you some good, or so we’re told.
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