Exist app helps middle-aged users build community connections

A new social wellness app called Exist is now available for iOS. It aims to help middle-aged users connect with one another and find community support during life's challenges. The app introduces social journaling as a key feature, allowing users to share their experiences and heal together. Exist is designed to be a more community-focused alternative to apps like Calm or Headspace. It includes a daily mood tracker, guided meditations, and audio exercises. The app was created by Jason Jardim, an iOS developer, and Alicia Waldner, a marketing agency founder. The two co-founders met on a date and shared a passion for mental health. Initially aimed at Gen Z, Exist’s main audience turned out to be middle-aged users, with an average age of 40. Users can swipe through a TikTok-like feed filled with videos and text posts from public journals. They can also comment on each other's entries to provide support and share advice. Waldner emphasizes that the community aspect is what sets Exist apart. Traditional journaling is often a solitary experience, but Exist encourages sharing thoughts publicly. The app also features an AI tool to help users explore their feelings more deeply. Basic community features are free, while guided audios and meditations require a $5.99 monthly subscription. Looking ahead, Exist plans to enhance its social features and introduce new tools for tracking sleep habits and emotions, as well as personalized journal prompts.