Oct. 11 marks National Coming Out Day ā an annual observance in the LGBTQ+ community that seeks to support folks who come out as a member of the community, as well as highlighting the stories of those who have come out before. Coming out as LGBTQ+ looks different for everyone: For some, the experience can be joyful, liberating, and full of support. For others, coming out can be a traumatizing and disheartening experience. In support of all coming out stories, the popular dating app Tinder has teamed up with the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) to support and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community.
In honor of National Coming Out Day, Tinder has partnered with the HRC to provide users direct in-app access to HRCāsĀ Coming Out Center for the week of National Coming Out Day. The Coming Out Center is a hub of resources and guides for coming out and living openly at home, at work, and in your community ā but only if you’re ready, of course.
According to Tinder’s 2023 Future of Dating Report, 54% of young LGBTQ+ singles said that they were out on a dating app before they were to friends and family. Dating while “in the closet” isn’t a particularly unique experience: Coming out is extremely personal, and nobody should feel pressured to label their sexuality publicly if they aren’t ready (and when it comes to being “outed,” that’s a whole other story).
However, discovering your queer identity in private can be an isolating experience that, oftentimes, leads to mental health struggles. In 2022, the United States Census found that over 60% of young LGBTQ+ folks (ages 18-29) experienced anxiety, while 50% experienced symptoms of depression. With the rate of mental health struggles for LGBTQ+ youths rising, and doubling that of non-LGBTQ+ folks, it goes without saying that resources within the community are a necessity.
Tinder’s direct access to the Coming Out Center will allow users to navigate resources for a variety of topics within the LGBTQ+ community ā including statistics, reports, and resources regarding POC in the LGBTQ+ community. Additionally, the HRC’s hub invites allies to learn more about supporting LGBTQ+ folks, including information on their āCome Out Against Hateā campaign, as well as ways to pledge their support.
While this feature will only be on Tinder for the week, support for the LGBTQ+ community is something that should be prevalent year-round. If you’re looking for resources as an LGBTQ+ person, there are tons of organizations, groups, and communities that can help you on your journey to live a free, joyful, and proud life. The HRC’s resources around coming out will also continue to live on their website and are free to access.
While coming out can be an intimidating, and oftentimes scary, experience, know that there are support systems and resources out there for you. And, whenever you’re ready, there will be folks welcoming you into the community with open, and kind, arms.
If you or someone you know is seeking help for LGBTQ+ mental health or safety concerns, call TheĀ Trevor Projectās 24/7 Lifeline at 866-4-U-TREVOR (866-488-7386). You can also reach out for instant message or text message support viaĀ TrevorChatĀ andĀ TrevorText, respectively. For additional resources for trans people, call theĀ Trans LifelineĀ at 877-565-8860. In an emergency, contact theĀ National Suicide Prevention LifelineĀ at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or call 911.