Swipe right. Make plans. Feel excited. 💕
For many college students, dating apps are a normal part of life — a way to meet new people, explore relationships, and have fun. And for a lot of people, they work. Friendships form. Relationships grow. Connections happen.
But alongside the excitement, there’s an important truth we don’t talk about enough:
A significant number of sexual assaults reported to forensic nursing programs start with someone meeting on a dating app.
This doesn’t mean dating apps are “bad” or that you shouldn’t use them.
What it really means is simple:
Whether you’re heading out on a first date or meeting someone in person after weeks of talking, a few intentional steps can make a huge difference:
💬 Tell a friend where you’re going and who you’re meeting.
📍 Share your location with someone you trust.
☕ Meet in a public place—somewhere you can leave easily.
🎧 Trust your instincts — even the small ones.
If something feels off, you never need a perfect reason to leave.
If something happens that crosses your boundaries, it is not your fault.
And if something causes harm, confusion, or fear — you are not alone.
HazelHelps.me exists for exactly this moment.
We’re a safe space, a trauma-informed resource hub, and a support system — whether you’re looking for information, reassurance, or next steps after something that didn’t feel right.
You deserve to feel excited about dating.
You deserve to feel safe.
You deserve respect.
So this season — and every season — remember:
Be Mine(dful). 💗