Don't despair about being single while social distancing. Here's why.

Single and unable to mingle.  That's the new normal for singletons navigating social distancing amid the new coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. Putting in-person dates on hold for now is a drastic, but necessary adjustment to help protect other people from contracting the virus — particularly those who are immunocompromised or elderly. There's a lot of uncertainty at present, and none of us know how long social distancing will remain in place, so it's easy to feel a little panicked about spending a lot more time alone — something that perhaps can see an increase in feelings of loneliness.  But being single needn't be a reason for despair right now. During this unprecedented time, I've started viewing my dating app matches as pen pals. It might sound a bit twee or even hopelessly optimistic, but the truth is, I see no other alternative. Going on actual dates would put people's lives at risk, and opting out of swiping altogether would feel like a punishment. For the first time since apps launched, we have time, to just...get to know each other.  Read more...More about Online Dating, Dating Apps, Coronavirus, Social Distancing, and Culture