Imagine you’re walking through a city, and suddenly notice an unusual sight: groups of teenagers and adults sitting together, completely absorbed in their phones. You might be tempted to dismiss them as self-absorbed millennials, wasting their time on the latest fad. But what if I told you that playing Pokémon Go is actually helping to reduce social anxiety and depression for many of its users?
Yes, you read that right. Pokémon Go, the augmented reality game that has taken the world by storm, is not only helping people get out of the house and exercise, it’s also promoting social interaction and alleviating mental health issues.
##The Power of Pokémon Go
According to Science Alert, the Pokémon Go app has motivated a significant percentage of the population to start getting regular exercise as they walk around to play. Beyond that, it has also encouraged individuals to connect with one another, which can be hugely beneficial for those who struggle with social anxiety.
Typical ways of reducing depression and anxiety include spending time outdoors, exercising, engaging with others in a supportive environment, and enjoying activities you find fulfilling. With Pokémon Go, players get to experience all of these aspects at once, leading to significantly improved mental well-being.
Psychologist John M. Grohol reported on PsychCentral that an increasing number of social media users have expressed feeling less depressed and anxious since playing Pokémon Go. That’s no small feat, considering many of these individuals may struggle just to leave their homes due to their mental health challenges.
Here are just a few tweets from people who have experienced the benefits of the game for themselves:
"Pokemon Go is my therapy for social anxiety, when i use a lure and meet more Pokemon Go players."
"Since playing pokemon go I've met new people+talked more.I feel so good leaving the house now+walking with all the weight off me #depression"
"Honestly I have dreaded getting myself out of the house for MONTHS. Haven't left in 2 weeks. Went out today for #PokemonGo. That felt good."
##The Science behind the Success
In an article published on Psychology Today, Grohol explains why Pokémon Go has been so successful in helping to reduce depression and anxiety. He identifies four main reasons: physical activity, sunlight exposure, socialization, and conversation starters.
- Physical activity: Exercise has long been known to combat depression and anxiety through the release of endorphins. Pokémon Go encourages users to walk and explore their surroundings as they search for virtual creatures, which in turn leads to the release of these “feel-good” chemicals.
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Sunlight exposure: Studies have shown that sunlight exposure can help regulate the production of serotonin and melatonin in the brain, which are key chemicals involved in mood regulation. Many people with depression and anxiety struggle with imbalances in these neurotransmitters, so getting sunshine can have a huge impact on mental health.
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Socialization: One of the most significant challenges for people with social anxiety and depression is interacting with others. Pokémon Go provides an opportunity for users to engage with like-minded individuals who share a common interest, fostering a sense of connection and camaraderie.
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Conversation starters: Pokémon Go also provides an easy way for people to initiate conversations with others, helping to alleviate the anxiety and fear that often comes with approaching new people. The shared experience of playing the game and catching Pokémon can lead to engaging, interesting discussions.
##Potential Downsides
While Pokémon Go offers several mental health benefits, it’s essential to remember that it’s not a cure-all. For some individuals, the game may not be the best solution. Additionally, some have pointed out potential dangers, such as distracted players wandering into traffic or stumbling upon unsafe situations.
However, it’s important not to dismiss the impact the game has had on millions of players worldwide. By incorporating physical activity, social interaction, and the great outdoors into one engaging experience, Pokémon Go has brought joy, excitement, and a sense of belonging to many individuals struggling with depression and anxiety.
So the next time you come across a group of people playing Pokémon Go, don’t be quick to judge. Remember that this simple game may be making a significant difference in their lives, helping them overcome challenges and find a sense of peace and happiness in an often difficult world.
