"Pokemon Go has honestly helped so much with my depression and anxiety I'm actually talking to people and being active I love this so much," Jenny Death tweeted about the game everyone's talking about.
Augmented reality game 'Pokemon Go' has become a phenomenon in the gaming world following its debut earlier this month.
At the same time, it's proving to be helpful for the mental health of "loner" type gamers who detach themselves from reality, immersing themselves in alternative "realities."
A number of experts have given a thumbs up to the game, which lets wannabe Pokemon catchers search for virtual monsters around them.
It is not just a mere claim that is doing the rounds. Dr John Grohol, an expert in how technology impacts human behaviour and mental conditions, has all the good things to say about Pokemon Go.
"In terms of the phenomena of people expressing the benefits of playing the game to their real-world mental health status, I think that's very unique and it's the first time I've ever seen anything like that," says Dr John Grohol, founder of mental health network Psych Central.
"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.
Computer science lecturer at Melbourne Universtiy Dr Greg Wadley, agreed, stating that there are "definite mental health benefits to playing games."
"If you're just sitting there you're probably not going to go up and talk to someone," he explains.
Social media platforms are now flooded with appreciation for the game. Many have expressed how it is helping them to fight anxiety and depression, and giving them a reason to go out and meet new people along with explorations.
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
#PokemonGO is going to do wonders for my mental health, providing me with purpose and reason to go outside at last. — Drew Dale (@drwdal) July 6, 2016
Lara from Australia was fighting anxiety and depression for eight years. But now with Pokemon Go, she is going out for walks and she loves it. "I have rapid mood changes and trouble regulating my emotions, but since playing Pokémon Go I have felt more positive."