Are dating apps social media?

Dating apps can be such a fun outlet to spend some time and energy on. The word “dating” in the title of these apps implies that they are for dating people.  However, dating apps have somewhat evolved since they were created, and people are using them for various reasons.  On that note, some people use dating apps as more of a social media platform than a means to date others.  It is a platform, like social media, that you can share your interests, photos, opinions, and views, among other things.  Therefore, it is important to see how some people will use dating apps to form social media and more for friendships. 

As you think about the different uses of dating apps, it is important to respect other people’s uses.  Everyone has the right to download a dating app and use it for the purpose that they want (as long as it is a safe reason).  It is important not to add stress if someone is using a dating app for social media reasons rather than dating reasons.  Try to have an acceptance around that and that some people enjoy getting to know other people. 

Like with social media, it is important to check in with yourself about if it is healthy for you or not.  So often, people feel pressured to use certain apps that so many people are using.  However, it is important to check in with yourself if you are actually enjoying using the app or not and if it is healthy for your mental health.  If you consider this and realize that it is not very healthy for you, it can be helpful to have a kind of reset with it.  Try to put energy towards other areas of your life before coming back to it if you decide that is the healthiest option for you.  Using dating apps as a form of social media can be a lot of fun to get to know others, but keep in mind your personal mental health and make sure it is at a healthy balance.