Upending Well-being: The Impact of Fear of Missing Out on One's Physical Health

Fear of Missing Out, or FOMO, is a modern-day phenomenon that has been traced back to the early 1990s with the rise of the "experience society." First mentioned in 2004 by Harvard student Patrick J. McGinnis, FOMO is defined as the pathological fear of missing out on social events, experiences, or opportunities, and not belonging to a group.

A 2017 study found a correlation between more daily social media use and a higher chance of having an anxiety disorder. This has made it increasingly difficult for people to escape FOMO, as they have access to others' lives 24/7. The advancement of social media has intensified this cultural shift, making FOMO an intensified expression of the value placed on being part of events over material possessions.

FOMO can occur due to seeing or perceiving such characteristics in people one is close to or even in people followed on social media. Examples of situations that can trigger FOMO include an athlete feeling they can't keep up with high standards, someone feeling inadequate compared to others' achievements, or someone feeling left out when others are traveling or having adventures.

Certain people are at higher risk for FOMO if they have underlying mental health conditions, low self-esteem, or have a poor relationship with their body image. In such cases, social media use can be particularly harmful, as it may be their primary means of connection.

Recognizing physical or psychological symptoms of FOMO is a signal to take a break. These symptoms can include stomach tension, headaches, body aches, heart palpitations, feelings of emotional distress, intrusive thoughts, and negative self-talk. If symptoms become increasingly disruptive, it's important to seek help.

Developing a sense of self is important in managing FOMO. A value-based assessment can help in understanding personal values and interests, which can provide a foundation for making decisions that align with one's personal goals rather than those driven by FOMO.

Setting limits on social media use can also help manage FOMO. Parents should set limits for their children's social media use to prevent them from developing unhealthy habits at a young age.

Seeking help from a psychologist specializing in interpersonal therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy can be beneficial. These therapeutic approaches can help individuals understand and manage their FOMO, as well as address any underlying mental health issues.

Interestingly, FOMO can lead to joy of missing out (JOMO) and reality of missing out (ROMO). JOMO is the opposite of FOMO, where one appreciates the peace and quiet of staying home, while ROMO is the acceptance that one might miss out on certain experiences, but that's okay.

In conclusion, FOMO is a negative emotional state resulting from unmet social relatedness needs. By understanding its causes, recognizing its symptoms, and taking steps to manage it, individuals can lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.