FOMO fuels anxiety and social pressure, experts note

Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) describes the anxiety that arises when people believe others are having more interesting or rewarding experiences. The term gained popularity with the rise of social‑media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok and X, where users constantly encounter curated highlights of others’ lives.

Studies link FOMO to increased stress, anxiety and lower self‑esteem, especially among adolescents and young adults. Researchers note that the phenomenon can drive impulsive purchases, unnecessary event attendance and a compulsive need to stay constantly connected. An emerging counter‑trend, Joy of Missing Out (JOMO), encourages periods of offline disengagement and a more balanced relationship with digital media.

Mental‑health professionals recommend strategies such as digital detoxes, limiting screen time, mindfulness breathing exercises, and replacing online scrolling with alternative activities like reading, art or spending time with close friends. These approaches aim to reduce the perceived urgency of staying continuously “in the know” and to mitigate the emotional toll of FOMO.