A recent study has revealed that our reliance on dating apps is having an impact on our mental health. According to the study–that was shared in the Sexes medical journal–dating app users are more likely to experience symptoms of depression as well as hyper-sexuality.
More commonly known as "sex addiction", hyper-sexuality involves obsessive sexual thoughts and urges in addition to compulsive sexual behavior. As well as the link between dating apps and depression and/or hyper-sexuality, the study also found that those experiencing these symptoms could be using dating apps as a coping mechanism. "The use of dating applications is widespread, and in some cases could be associated with psychosexological issues," the report (led by Giacomo Ciocca, a researcher and assistant professor at Sapienza, University of Rome) said. "Hence, we decided to investigate hypersexual behavior and depression symptoms among dating app users and non-users." The report continued: "We primarily found higher levels of hypersexual behavior and depression symptoms in dating app users compared to non-users."
Elsewhere, the study's report revealed that investigations had "highlighted the high prevalence of major depression, anxiety, and general distress in young people using dating apps. In some cases, these psychological issues negatively involve the perception of self through lower levels of self-esteem and impairment of body image and satisfaction." It continued: "This investigation shows for the first time a strong association between dating app use, hypersexual behavior, and depression symptoms. This evidence could mean that some hyper-sexual and/or depressed individuals recurringly use dating apps to alleviate their psychological and sexological suffering.
"It is also possible to consider the role of dating apps as a 'transitional object', providing security, emotional well-being, and symbolic connection with a valued other, for some users attempting to cope with their internal depressive feelings by having sex.
"In light of these considerations, it would be appropriate to consider dating apps as a place to eventually promote psychological, relationship and sexological health."
***
This article originally appeared on Cosmopolitan.com/uk. Minor edits have been made by the Cosmo.ph editors.
READ MORE ABOUT DATING APPS:
10 Pinays Share The Dating App Conversations That Made Them Go, 'Ha?'
How Long Should You Wait To Meet A Dating App Match IRL?
How To Flirt Online If You're Trying Dating Apps For The First Time
34 Clues You'll Be Able To Spot From Someone's Dating App Photos
