webadminFOMO or the fear of missing out indicates a condition of general anxiety in which an individual feels that their friends and acquaintances are enjoying enriching life experiences without them. Sometimes, FOMO is also referred to as a type of social anxiety manifested as a continuous need to stay connected to keep oneself abreast of the activities of other people so that they are “well informed.”
However, the ubiquitous presence of social media can convert the need to constantly stay connected into anxiety and other distressing mental health ailments. FOMO can lead to the feelings of dissatisfaction triggered because of their own social life. It can create a feeling of loneliness and boredom, greatly affecting one’s psychological well-being. Fortunately, with age, the symptoms of FOMO begin to subside as one gets engaged with more important life events.
Ways of dealing with FOMO
There are several ways to overcome FOMO and make life more productive. Some of these ways include:
- Admitting the problem – It is important for an individual to accept the fact that they cannot be present everywhere at all times and be having fun. Admitting and accepting that one suffers from FOMO is like winning half the battle. This is because once a person acknowledges their anxiety, they can think of taking steps to deal with the problem.
- Decreasing screen time – People have a tendency to check their Facebook stories and Instagram feeds the moment they get up and then every five minutes thereof. Even when they are at work, in a meeting, on a date, they keep checking their notifications compulsively. This can greatly decrease one’s quality of life. Thus, one should limit their screen time and focus more on their day-to-day activities.
- Savoring experiences – Some people are so obsessed with posting pictures on social media when they go out for meals, dinner, adventure sports, and holidays that their focus shifts from enjoying the little joys of life to uploading their experiences online and obsessing over comments and likes. It is important to practice mindfulness and stay in the present, enjoy every moment and be thankful to God for giving one the opportunity to be able to enjoy themselves.
- Reaching out for help – Sometimes, despite best intentions and sincere efforts, FOMO does not go way on its own. In such a scenario, one can seek help from a professional, join certain support groups, and invest time on self-care.
Seeking help for mental health
It is important to understand that social media is not a “devil.” It allows us to stay connected to our friends, acquaintances, colleagues, world happenings, and so much more. However, excessive use of this medium can complicate life increasing FOMO to the extent that it interferes with the day-to-day functioning of life. Additionally, FOMO can also wreak havoc with our mental health. Therefore, we must seek professional help to mend our ways before it is too late.
With the intention of spreading mindfulness about mental health disorders and encourage people to reach out for support, every year May is observed as the Mental Health Awareness Month. The premise of observing this is to spread the word that mental wellness is as critical as physical wellness. Like the previous year, this year also the theme is #4Mind4Body and beyond. The theme is about encouraging mental health and general wellness by caring about pets, supporting animals, working on humor, spirituality, work-life balance, social connections, and recreation.
If you or a loved one is battling a mental health disorder and is looking for licensed mental health facilities in California, then get in touch with the Mind Health Network. The team of medical experts at our affiliate residential mental health facilities is compassionate and ready to listen to you and help you achieve complete mental health recovery. For more information call our mental health treatment helpline which is open 24/7 including a live chat representative available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
