7 Dating Tips to Try Out if You Struggle With Anxiety

“Wow, I love dating in the digital age!” says almost no one. 

Even fewer people with anxiety disorders say that. Whether it’s generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), (complex) post traumatic-stress disorder (C-/PTSD), social anxiety, or another form, living with anxiety can be tough. Dating with anxiety when a swipe left or right can trigger your deepest insecurities can be tougher.

We reached out to our Mighty community to find out what tips they have for dating with anxiety. Not only did people relate, but they had a lot to contribute.

Here’s what they had to say:

1. “Make sure that the one you’re dating understands that you have anxiety, and just how it affects you. Tell them your triggers (if you found them out), and what calms you down the most. Then, when you have an attack coming on, it makes it easier for the both of you to go through it.” – Tifani B.

2. “Take them to a place you feel comfortable in.” – Mel K

3. “If it causes many problems, issues, fear, anger and panic, you are definitely making mistakes. Being with or settling with the wrong person if you have a gut feeling something is wrong or bad, don’t continue.”  -@Enjoychattingnew 

4. “Have an exit plan if you are going on a date with someone you don’t know or don’t know well. A phone call from a friend mid-evening could be pretended to be just a mistimed call or an ‘emergency’ requiring you to leave depending on how things are going. Also, make sure you have a ride available to leave at any point.” – @kitttieluv

5. “Do not assume the worst.” – @Littlerooray

6. “Drive yourself so you can leave when you want/need. Schedule a short first date (coffee) as opposed to a longer event (dinner).” – @Sjbarto 

And if none of this advice works, remember what contributor Anne J. had to say:

7. “I’m 65 and I gave up on dating years ago! I can’t be bothered. I enjoy being alone and doing what I need and want!”

You go Anne!