NEW RULES

Lockdown paranoia has driven some millennials to view dating in a whole new light

- BARRY RODGERS

If things weren’t as crazy, I’d consider it,” wrote a Grindr user, when I asked if he was comfortable meeting guys IRL right now. (His profile indicated that he was bored.) “Covid has me paranoid to hook up.” As the coronavirus outbreak disrupts nearly every aspect of social life, almost all of us single folk are also reckoning with what it means for our sex lives. Social distancing marks an unprecedented strain on almost anyone with a libido and no partner at home. However, it would be highly irresponsible of us to not take a step back, self-isolate and reflect. But in the current scenario, I find myself, like many others, even more alone. So, turning to dating apps to cultivate conversations seems like the only viable option. It’s just that now, most of the men that hit me up on these platforms are keen to talk, too – a modern-day miracle.

I ’M NOT VIDEO CALLING YOU

An untold number of millennials are exploring virtual alternatives to social interactions and intimacy during a time of social distancing. Of course, these measures have been put in place to help keep everyone safe. That doesn’t make the rules any easier to follow. All the popular dating apps are being morally and socially responsible by advising users to adhere to social distancing actions and other safety precautions while also encouraging digital date ideas, like video dinners. But, I don’t think I’m ready to video-call a complete stranger. What if I get catfished?