Dating with Anxiety and Trauma

Anxiety impacts over 18% of Americans and 9% of Americans will experience PTSD in their lifetime. 70% of Americans will go through at least one traumatic experience in their life. Many people have likewise dealt with difficult, abusive, and toxic relationships. Online dating is a way to ease into dating and relationships and can help you gain more control of dating situations and stay safe.

Meeting people online can help people who struggle with anxiety or trauma meet people and cultivate relationships on their own terms. Dating apps offer users the ability to block other people, filter messages, and control the details on their profile. There are several options when it comes to dating apps, and while some are the best video apps for relationship, others are targeted for more casual relationships. When you decide to try an online dating app, try to have an idea of what exactly you are looking for, and that the app you are using meets your specific needs.

The most important thing when you start using a dating app is to take it slow. Take time to get to know the other person, and don’t rush things. Apps that allow calls and video chats allow you to meet people without divulging personal information or meeting in person. You don’t have to share your phone number, Skype ID, or social networking profiles to video chat or talk. If a user makes you uncomfortable, you can easily block them and report inappropriate messages.

Also, Read >>> How to Find Love: Which is Better? Traditional or Online Dating?

You can build a rapport with people on a dating app without meeting in person. The ability to meet and talk in a comfortable environment that you control can help you overcome anxiety issues and trauma. If you dislike or become overwhelmed with crowded public places because of anxiety, dating apps help you control the situation and take your time to respond to questions and messages.

Don’t rush to share personal details about yourself, like your struggles with anxiety or trauma. Remember that these experiences are personal in nature, and you should worry about disclosing those issues when you develop trust with the person and a long-term relationship. When you are getting to know someone, start with small talk. Most people don’t start first dates or encounters on dating apps by sharing their entire life story. Oversharing can lead to rejection or can make you feel overexposed. Keep it informal until things become more serious.

When picking a place for a first date, try to think of a place that will make you feel comfortable. If you get anxious in crowded places but want to meet at a restaurant, try to pick a time the restaurants typically isn’t crowded. Restaurants, for instance, typically slow down between 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. If you don’t like going out at night, consider a weekend lunch or coffee date. Consider having a close friend nearby or on call in case the date doesn’t go well.

There’s also no pressure to meet people you chat with on a dating app. Remember that you control whether you chose to meet in person or go on a date. Chatting on a dating app can help you build confidence in talking to new people and even flirting. Controlling the dialogue helps you work on how to best communicate with others and share details about yourself in an effective way.

When preparing for a date, try planning a few conversation topics so you don’t feel anxious if there is an awkward silence. Remember that all first dates are awkward.

Also consider looking into the best video dating app, Zepeel, which allows users to video chat and call other users.