Using dating apps excessively can have a detrimental effect on mental health and life quality, leading to higher levels of stress, anxiety, and even depression. Studies have shown that frequent users of dating apps are more likely to experience lower self-esteem, have difficulty forming meaningful relationships, and experience an overall sense of unhappiness. In order to foster healthier relationships and maintain mental wellbeing, it is important to practice balanced app usage and to remember that there are many more important aspects to a fulfilling life than the pursuit of a romantic relationship.
My app ”one sec“ is designed to help users become aware of their (dating) app usage habits and to give them the opportunity to reflect before opening such apps. By adding friction op app open, users must wait before they can open a dating app. This encourages users to think critically and to ask themselves if they are using the app to distract themselves from other activities or if they are truly looking for a meaningful connection. By providing a brief moment of reflection, one sec helps users practice more balanced and healthier app usage.