New data shows high schoolers from the pandemic era face challenges in dating and socialising.
Image: Pexels.
March marked the fifth anniversary since the world went into lockdown, and while many people were able to get back to normal soon after the Covid-19 pandemic, it hasn't been as easy for others.
A survey conducted by the BLK Dating and Social App showed that those who were high school pupils during the pandemic are now navigating a complicated landscape of dating and socialising in a post-lockdown world.
The "Covid kids", as they have been dubbed, are struggling with social anxieties that have dramatically reshaped their approach to in-person connections.
The survey’s results are striking: over half (53.9%) of the participants indicate that the lockdown experience still disrupts their ability to engage in real-life interactions.
A significant number, 36.1%, feel awkward or uncomfortable when it comes to arranging meet-ups, while 20.3% openly express feeling "lost without screens".
Before the pandemic, socialising was a routine part of life for these teens, with 32.7% meeting friends weekly and 28.2% daily. Now, nearly half (44.2%) of the respondents struggle with initiating romantic relationships.
Among these, 24.3% describe feeling uncertain or freezing up when trying to start a connection, while 19.9% find the idea of in-person dates simply too daunting and prefer the perceived safety of online interactions.
The online platform also used its site as a case study.
Results showed that 51.7% of users prefer to "chat online for a bit first" before meeting face-to-face, and 3.7% avoid in-person engagements altogether, labelling them as "intimidating".
The survey also highlighted the toll on friendships; 27.7% reported losing touch with most of their friends, with post-hangout fatigue affecting 19.2% of participants, making them hesitant to engage socially.
Nearly half (44.2%) struggle, 24.3% feel shaky or freeze up starting relationships and 19.9% find in-person dates too stressful or prefer online as safer.
Image: File.
“Five years ago, these ‘Covid kids’ saw their social world shut down. They’re eager; 27.9% on BLK want to meet ASAP, but with over half still struggling, in-person feels like a stretch," noted Amber Cooper from the online platform.
"With 41.7% mixing online and in real life (IRL) and 23.4% leaning IRL but needing a push, the desire is strong, but so is the challenge. Half a decade later, they’re not stalled. They’re just recalibrating. We’re here to guide them forward."
Here are five practical tips for young adults to rekindle their social lives:
Use your past
"Share a lockdown memory, ask ‘What got you through those days?’ to connect and showcase your resilience," said Cooper.
Take small steps
"Start with quick interactions like coffee or a short call, each step builds comfort. Focus on steady progress."
Ask questions
"Keep it simple. Ask low-pressure questions to spark genuine conversation."
Stay present
"Be mindful of the moment, pay attention to their voice and energy instead of worrying about potential negative outcomes."
Make it your way
“Tap into your interests, share a song or propose a gaming night. Personalised interactions lead to stronger connections."