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Pokeman Go app helps improve students' mental health, UNF research shows

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Students at the University of North Florida say between term papers, exams and extracurricular activities, balancing college life is often overwhelming.

"Now that I'm working full time and full-time school – having fun is like so far, not an option,' said Jaylon Reaves, a junior at UNF.

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He explained that walking is the No. 1 way he reduces stress.

"Gives you time to evaluate so you can figure out what you can do to be better, " he said.

Students can get even more out of those walks if they're playing Pokemon Go, according to Dr. Tracy Alloway, a psychologist.

The UNF psychology professor told Action News Jax a recent study shows their students feel less negative, anxious and irritable during a walk with the game than without.

"Add that kind of social connectedness to the mix and you're getting the 3 for 1. When you're playing Pokemon Go, you're playing outside, you're playing with friends. I think people of any ages could benefit from this," she said

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In 2016 Action News Jax reported when two people were robbed while playing the game in Jacksonville Beach.

In other parts of the country, Pokemon Go players have caused crashes by walking into traffic and playing while driving.

Reaves said it makes him skeptical of the new research.

"When Pokemon Go became a thing, everyone was saying how dangerous it was especially when people were using it while driving. So I really find it confusing that now it has mental health benefits," he explained.