I'm 23, and I've been single for quite a few years. I haven't been on a date since before the pandemic started. In fact, I don't really think I've met any eligible people to date in the last couple of years, either. My family has been very careful with covid, because we have vulnerable people who can't get vaccinated, yet. (We are hoping they can get vaccinated very soon.) While I think we have gone overboard with precautions, I understand why we have been so strict with our bubble. When I brought up my frustrations about being single and unable to meet new people, my sister told me I could try online dating, but if I can't go on in-person dates, yet, I worry that people will think I'm hiding something or that I'm some kind of catfish. In the meantime, it really feels like my life is on hold, because all I do is work, spend time with my family, and play Subeta. I don't know what I would do without my friends online.

I was curious if anyone else has struggled with dating during the pandemic. Any advice or conversation is welcome.

facetime and zoom dates are totally a thing! long distance couples have been doing it since before covid. and if the other person is vaccinated and gets tested often, maybe you can plan for real life dates after you feel more comfortable. it's important that the other person understand why you're being so careful as well. finding someone you vibe with online might take a couple of tries, but you just have to keep trying. i used tinder for a little while and just asked for proof of vaccination. when i felt ready to meet in person, we both went and got tested before going out to eat. i didn't end up dating anyone off tinder lol but it is possible

Thanks for responding. I appreciate your input. I think the main problem for me is that I don't really have control over who I can and can't see in person. Regardless of vaccination status, going on a date with someone would probably require me to pull out of my family bubble. My sister is so strict, and I've nearly fought with her on multiple occasions over how much control it feels like she has over my family. I think I may have to talk with her about reducing our restrictions so I can meet someone in person when I do make a good connection.

At this point, I just need to feel like I have some control over my social/dating life. I need to feel like I'm able to do something about my loneliness.

def set up some boundaries or something with them, you need to be able to branch out and grow as a person. you're in your early 20s so you still have a lot of time to meet people, and you need the freedom to do so. if you've spoken to your sister about your loneliness, i hope she'd be understanding and lessen her hold. everyone deserve a chance at being happy.