With a fifth of singletons worrying about spending the new year alone, it’s no surprise that many are turning to dating apps to help find their perfect match – and one trait is more important than ever.
It appears the dating landscape is changing as a few years back, two-thirds of us would have cringed at the idea of discussing our mental health on a first date. But new research has revealed the majority of singles view open conversations about mental health as a positive sign.
While 88% were always at ease with having all sorts of discussions on a first date, 61% have previously felt too self-conscious to delve too deeply into their mental health.
Historically, 32% admitted they would have sidestepped any conversation related to mental health due to its associated stigma and perception as a weakness. It turns out, 28% of love-seekers prefer engaging in meaningful dialogues that reveal vulnerability over casual chit-chat during their initial meeting with someone.
Hayley Quinn, a dating and relationships expert from Match, commented: “With our study revealing that three quarters of singles view mental health as a dating green flag, the days of feeling like you need to put on a pitch perfect performance for a successful date are long gone.”
“Singles want to start something real, and in order to do so, they are approaching dating with more candour than ever before.”
The dating app is partnering with mental health charity Calm, providing new members a tempting 50% discount on first-year premium memberships.
The importance of discussing mental health is monumental for 86% of singles who say that such openness is vital for nurturing trust and honesty right from the start, potentially leading to deeper connections.
When delving into personal matters, 40% have shared their own mental health experiences candidly, with 38% revealing the challenges they’ve encountered.
For a significant 75%, these conversations are not just about connecting but also improving their own mental wellness.
Hayley Quinn from Match emphasises: “By being open about their mental health and relationship expectations, singles are empowering themselves to build meaningful partnerships, where they can meet each other’s needs, and create happy, stable relationships.”
