In today's world, many people experience a feeling known as FOMO, which stands for the "fear of missing out." This feeling can hit when we see friends or family having fun without us on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
It can make us question why we weren't invited and leave us feeling sad, guilty, or even anxious. Dr. Amy Sullivan, a clinical psychologist, explains that FOMO happens when we believe others are having a better time or living more exciting lives than we are.
How FOMO Impacts Self-Esteem and Mental Health
FOMO isn't just a social media problem. It can affect anyone, anywhere, at any time. For example, if an athlete sees a famous sports figure training hard every day, they might feel pressured to do the same, worrying that they are not good enough, Cleveland Clinic said.
Similarly, if someone loves reading and sees their friends posting about all the books they've read, they might feel inferior. These feelings of inadequacy can lead to stress and anxiety.
Research shows that FOMO is closely linked to mental health issues. Individuals with low self-esteem or mental health challenges, like anxiety or depression, may experience FOMO more intensely. When people feel disconnected from others, especially during tough times, they often turn to social media for comfort. However, this can backfire, as seeing friends bond and enjoy experiences can heighten feelings of isolation.
Dr. Sullivan emphasizes that FOMO can lead to physical and emotional symptoms. People may feel stomach aches, headaches, or even heart palpitations when overwhelmed by these feelings. Mentally, they might struggle with negative thoughts about themselves, which can affect their daily lives, including school, friendships and sports.
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How to Combat Social Media Anxiety
So, what can we do about FOMO? First, it's important to recognize our feelings. Setting limits on social media use can help. Dr. Sullivan suggests that taking breaks from social media or only using it at certain times can prevent FOMO from taking over. It's also helpful to identify triggers-specific situations that cause these feelings-and find ways to cope with them.
Another effective strategy is developing a strong sense of self. By understanding our unique qualities and values, we can build confidence and reduce the urge to compare ourselves to others. Writing down what brings us joy can help us focus on positive aspects of our lives rather than what we may be missing out on.
Additionally, remembering that social media often shows only the best moments can help us keep things in perspective. People usually share happy times, not their struggles. So, it's essential to realize that everyone has challenges behind the scenes.
According to Phys.Org, if feelings of FOMO become overwhelming, reaching out to a psychologist can be beneficial. Professional help can provide guidance on managing these feelings and improving overall mental health.
