Dating app Bumble recently announced new self care interest badges for its users to display on their profiles.

The six new signs summarize values, interests or needs of the person on whose profile they appear, and include Deep Chats, Mindfulness, Nutrition, Sleeping Well, Therapy and Time Offline.

The initiative aims to alleviate some of the awkwardness around discussing mental health and well-being, and also aims to connect daters over their self care interests.

Young Australians are now more willing to go to—and talk about—therapy. In a survey of 1000 single Australians, it was found that 60% would be open to going to therapy to improve their confidence or self esteem.

So, how can conversations around your well-being improve your sex life?

Sexologist Chantelle Otten explains that self care leads to greater confidence, which in-turn always leads to better sex and relationships.

“When you prioritize self-care, you develop a deeper connection with yourself and your needs, which can lead to better communication and understanding in your sexual relationships,” she told ELLE Australia.

It’s fairly simple: being more in-tune with your needs, can help you communicate those needs with others.

“Open conversations about mental health are crucial with a new partner because they help establish trust, vulnerability, and understanding in the relationship,” Chantelle adds.

“Being open about your mental health can set a solid foundation for clear communication and support as your relationship develops. When both partners are aware of each other’s mental health needs, they can better navigate challenges together and create a healthy, supportive, and empathetic connection.”

How Do you talk about mental health on a date?

Talking about your own mental health and needs can be an intense exercise in vulnerability. It’s not always easy and safe to get into that space with a relative stranger.

If you match with someone who has a therapy badge on Bumble, Chantelle suggests approaching the topic with sensitivity and curiosity.

“In a chat on the app or during an in-person conversation, you can mention that you noticed their badge and that you think it’s great they’re taking care of their mental health. You could say something like, ‘Hey, I saw you have the therapy badge on your profile, that’s really cool! I admire people who take care of their mental well-being. What’s your experience been like with therapy?’” she said.

“Remember, the key is to create a safe and non-judgmental space for them to share their thoughts and experiences.”

This article was originally published on ELLE Australia.

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