Due to the ongoing limitations brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, the rates at which people feel isolated have led to two things; higher depression rates and the staggering usage of dating apps.
With the feeling of loneliness being a challenge for many, dating apps have been used as a tool to quell issues of social anxiety and isolation.
Psychology Today reported on how dating app usage will change post-pandemic from a study done by Ariella Lenton-Brym. Martin Graff Ph.D. of Psychology Today writes the study explores “the extent to which the symptoms of depression and social anxiety influence use of dating apps. Ultimately, their findings offer some clues as to how our use of dating apps might change post-pandemic. The researchers recruited 374 participants and assessed them on several different measures.”
It was found that apps like Tinder help to ease stress and anxiety that would typically be brought about during in-person social activities.
In the study by Lenton-Brym, Graff reports, “that as depression and anxiety increased, various reasons for using dating apps such as Tinder also increased, with some notable gender differences. Overall, the association between social anxiety, depression symptoms, and dating app use was more prevalent in women than in men.”
WATCH MORE: Dr. Chris Speaks On Using Dating Apps To Create Causal and Non-Romantic Connections with Others
Audacy's I’m Listening initiative aims to encourage those who are dealing with mental health issues to understand they are not alone. If you or anyone you know is struggling with depression or anxiety, know that someone is always there. Additionally, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-800-273-8255.
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