Exist, a novel iOS social wellness app, is shaking up the mental health space by emphasizing community connection and social journaling. Dubbed the "edgier cousin" of popular mindfulness apps like Calm and Headspace, Exist aims to help middle-aged consumers build meaningful relationships with others as they navigate life's stresses.

The brainchild of iOS developer Jason Jardim and marketing agency founder Alicia Waldner, Exist was born out of a shared passion for mental health support. The co-founders, who met on a date, recognized the need for a platform that would facilitate community-based experiences, rather than solo endeavors. Waldner's experience with group mental wellness events and Jardim's technical expertise came together to create an app that would fill this gap.

Initially targeting Gen Z users, Exist surprisingly resonated with middle-aged consumers, with the average user age being 40. This unexpected demographic shift prompted the founders to refocus the app around this older group. Exist now features a TikTok-like feed where users can share and engage with public journals, responding to daily prompts and offering support and advice to one another.

The app's social journaling aspect is free, while access to guided audios and meditations requires a $5.99 monthly subscription. A unique AI-powered question feature encourages users to delve deeper into their thoughts and feelings, helping them get to the bottom of their issues. Waldner emphasizes that Exist's community-driven approach sets it apart from other mental health apps, which often focus on solo experiences.

Looking ahead, the Exist team plans to further develop the app's human connection features and explore additional tools, such as logging sleep habits and emotions, as well as personalized journal prompts. By fostering a sense of community and connection, Exist is poised to make a significant impact in the mental health space.

As the app continues to grow and evolve, it will be interesting to see how it influences the broader mental health conversation. With its innovative approach to social wellness, Exist is well-positioned to become a leader in the industry, providing a unique solution for those seeking support and connection.