The emotion of “fear of missing out” (FOMO) arises from the perception that others are missing out on significant possibilities or are living better, more fulfilling lives. FOMO frequently causes discomfort, discontentment, melancholy, and stress. The prevalence of FOMO has increased in recent years due to the development of social media.
The fear of missing out on exciting experiences or significant opportunities (FOMO) is brought on by these feelings of anxiety. The amygdala, the part of the brain that detects whether or not something is a threat to survival, is what causes FOMO.
Because people are constantly comparing their lives to the idealized experiences they see posted online, smartphones and social media have made FOMO more common. More than ever, it’s simple to observe what other people are doing thanks to websites and apps like Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.
Effects of FOMO
Constantly checking one’s phone while watching a movie, posting everything on social media, and becoming anxious at the thought of being without one’s phone are just a few of the obvious effects of FOMO. Although these effects might not seem particularly negative, FOMO can also encourage unhealthy behaviors like texting while driving, which can be fatal.
The impact of FOMO on mental health is reflected in all of these external manifestations. As previously indicated, FOMO as well as feelings of dissatisfaction with life can lead to feelings of depression, fear, worry, and tension.
When someone gets preoccupied with other people and their lives, they lose their sense of self and are unable to interact with others as real individuals.
How To Deal With FOMO
Understanding FOMO and its causes are the first step in overcoming it and improving life pleasure. Once FOMO is identified, steps can be made to eliminate it from the person’s life. Most recommendations for people trying to deal with FOMO include:
- Taking vacations from social media and focusing more on the present, as well as the people and environment around them.
- Changing focus from what is lacking in life to what is already there.
- Instead of publishing everything on social media, keep a notebook of enjoyable recollections and events
- Seeking out real interactions with people in person or one-on-one. Making plans with friends and leaving the house might help reduce emotions of missing out and foster a sense of belonging.
