Is Pokémon Go Better than Anti-Depressants?
Tons of people are saying that Pokemon Go is reducing their symptoms of mental illness (even PTSD). Instead of sitting indoors feeling socially isolated, they’re walking around in the sunshine, having guilt-free fun, talking and laughing with people.
#PokemonGo has already been a better treatment for my depression than anything my doctor prescribed or therapist recommended
— Jesseanne Pope (@gleefullyhello) July 11, 2016
#PokemonGO has changed me so much for the better in only a week. Dealing with BPD, depression& anxiety it has helped me get out of the house
— Lara (@38Violetqueen) July 11, 2016
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
Pokemon Go has got me up and moving and meeting new people.
Thank you, Nintendo/Niantic, for giving me a great anti-depression tool. <3
— Butterscotch Boy (@ManectricMan) July 12, 2016
I’ve made so many new friends with #PokemonGO, it’s helped my social anxiety, and I’m actually getting out. This is more than just a game.
— Brandon Evans (@Brandon21Evans) July 11, 2016
Took another 4 mile walk and talked to 4 people along the way. #PokémonGo may solve obesity and social anxiety in one app.
— Allan (@AllanTries) July 10, 2016
#PokemonGO is gunna cure my social anxiety. Everyone has been so nice. People are not as scary as originally perceived.
— Captain Naomi (@CptNaomi) July 11, 2016
#PokemonGO this is actually making me want to leave my room and interact with people finally after years of depression I love this so much
— amy (@amyxplier) July 10, 2016
I know this sounds silly but #PokemonGo has helped me a lot with my social anxiety by encouraging me to go out more.
— •HeckShep (@SootySheepu) July 10, 2016
This got me thinking about which apps are most helpful when you’re in the thick of an emotional downturn. My favorites are:
- Nike Training (free).
- The 5-Minute Journal ($2.99)
- Pokemon Go (free).
- Ham Horn (free). Inject this app into any conversation and crack everyone up.
- HeartRateFree (free). A lot of people freak out about their heart, and this reminds you that you’re actually fine.
You don’t need apps, really. It’s almost stupidly easy to feel better. Go outside for a few hours, move around in the sun, and have guilt-free fun with people.
Having said that… What are your favorite apps for boosting happiness?
Member discussion