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4 MENTAL HEALTH Wednesday, 29 November 2023
The FOMO Dilemma:
Unraveling the Impact of Fear of Missing Out
THE age of constant connectivity and social media satura- of joyous experiences fosters a sense of exclusion for those
tion, the phenomenon of Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) has not actively participating. As a result, individuals may find
woven itself into the very fabric of our digital interactions. themselves caught in a loop of social comparison, nega-
The pervasive nature of FOMO, a term coined to describe tively impacting self-esteem and overall mental well-being.
the anxiety and apprehension associated with the fear of
missing out on social experiences, has become a nuanced Overcoming the FOMO Phenomenon
aspect of modern life, influencing everything from individual Addressing FOMO requires a conscious effort to recalibrate
decision-making to overall well-being. our relationship with social media and societal expectations.
Setting realistic expectations, understanding the curated
The Social Media Spectacle nature of online content, and embracing the concept of the
At the heart of FOMO lies the ever-scrolling landscape of JOMO (Joy of Missing Out) can be pivotal in combating FOMO.
social media platforms. As individuals meticulously curate Embracing the idea that it’s okay to miss certain experiences
their lives in pixels, presenting a highlight reel of experi- and that genuine connection transcends the virtual realm is
ences, it becomes easy for others to fall prey to comparison. crucial for mental and emotional balance.
The perpetual stream of celebratory posts, exotic vacations,
and social gatherings can trigger a sense of inadequacy, Promoting Digital Well-Being*
prompting the relentless question: “Am I missing out on the In an era where the digital landscape shapes our perceptions
best moments of life?” of reality, fostering digital well-being becomes paramount.
Platforms, too, bear a responsibility to create environ-
The Pressure to Participate ments that prioritize positive user experiences over perpet-
FOMO thrives on the perceived pressure to participate in uating FOMO-inducing content. Incorporating features that
every social event, virtual or otherwise, for fear that opting encourage mindful usage and promote genuine connections
out might mean missing a pivotal moment. This constant can contribute to a healthier digital ecosystem.
pressure to be present, both online and offline, contributes
to a cycle of overcommitment and burnout as individuals The pervasive influence of FOMO underscores the need for a
strive to keep up with an ever-expanding social calendar. recalibration of our digital interactions. By fostering aware-
ness, promoting genuine connection, and embracing the
The Illusion of Connection* joy of missing out on certain experiences, individuals can
Paradoxically, the very platforms designed to connect us can navigate the FOMO dilemma and reclaim agency over their
deepen the feelings of isolation associated with FOMO. The digital well-being in a world that often thrives on the fear of
illusion that everyone else is enjoying a continuous stream missing out.
