FODA, or “Fear of Dating Again,” is the new FOMO for young singles. YPulse’s Finding Love Post-COVID trend research found that 55% of young 18+ singles say dating during the pandemic has caused a lot of anxiety. Now, there’s a new term for the feeling: FODA, the Fear of Dating Again. Chief dating expert at Match Rachel DeAlto says, “before COVID-19, people were in a groove of dating. It was just natural…and then people came out of practice,” which is likely where many young singles’ fears around dating are coming from. But there is hope, DeAlto explains, and taking “baby steps” with timely activities like going on a walk in the park versus long dinner dates can help minimize feelings of anxiety for some. As young people regain a sense of normalcy, their work, school, and social lives are constantly adapting, and dating isn’t the only thing they’re likely feeling anxious about right now. (NYPost)
