By using dating apps with a purpose, you are more likely to be satisfied with the experience. But there is risk. If it becomes monotonous, compulsive, or overwhelming, you could develop increases in anxiety and depression, poor self-image, and negative self-esteem.
 

To combat this, consider the following:

 

• Work proactively on your well-being.

• Set aside app time rather than mindlessly swiping.

• Keep those sessions under 15 minutes (max 30).

• Don’t spend more than an hour a day on dating apps.

• Limit yourself to a couple of apps at a time, rotating to new apps every few weeks.

 

I am not a mental health clinician, and you should ultimately seek mental health advice from clinical professionals:

 

• Find a therapist on Psychology Today.

• Utilize the Crisis Text Line if you are feeling unsafe (visit https://www.crisistextline.org/ or text HOME to 741741).

• Utilize the National Suicide Lifeline (call 988) if you are experiencing thoughts of self-harm. For those hard of hearing or deaf, visit: https://988lifeline.org/help-yourself/for-deaf-hard-of-hearing/.