What is sugar dating? Here's why young Indians prefer lifestyle support over true companionship

Once spoken about only in secret, sugar dating is now slowly becoming a topic of public discussion in urban India. Experts say it is not just about relationships or moral views, but it also shows deeper issues like financial pressure and emotional stress among young people. In fast-growing cities, many youngsters feel a strong pressure to match rising lifestyles while their incomes do not grow at the same speed, making it hard to “keep up.”

Psychotherapist Dr Chandni Tugnait MD (A.M), Psychotherapist, Life Alchemist, Coach & Healer, Founder & Director, Gateway of Healing explains to News X about such arrangements often happen when people look for quick relief from financial stress. Expenses like rent, education fees, and daily lifestyle needs can become overwhelming. In such situations, some individuals may see these arrangements as short-term survival options rather than long-term life choices.

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Financial pressure and quick relief

At the core of this trend is economic stress. Many young Indians are dealing with unstable incomes, rising living costs, and academic or career pressure. Sugar dating, in this context, becomes a short-term coping mechanism where financial support is exchanged for companionship.

Hidden emotional cost

Behind the surface, experts highlight a deeper psychological impact. Leading double lives—one public and one private—can create emotional strain, identity confusion, and long-term stress. The need for secrecy often ends up feeling heavier than the financial relief it provides.

Impact of social media and peer pressure

Curated online lifestyles intensify comparison. What once felt like distant ambition now feels like daily inadequacy. This gap between “real life” and “online life” pushes some young people toward shortcuts that promise faster access to a desired lifestyle.

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Experts say sugar dating is not only about personal choices. It is linked to money problems, high living costs, and lack of emotional support. Many young people in cities feel stressed because their income is not enough for their needs and expectations.

Social media also increases pressure by making people compare their lives with others. Because of this gap between real life and online life, some people look for quick solutions. Experts say we should try to understand the situation instead of judging others