Understanding FOMO: The Psychology Behind It and Tips to Beat Depression

At its core, what FOMO is stems from our fundamental human desires for social connection, belonging, and experience. We are wired to seek acceptance and validation from others, and the fear of being left out or excluded can trigger deep-seated insecurities and anxieties.

In the age of social media, this fear has become amplified by the constant stream of curated images and experiences shared by others. Scrolling through endless feeds of exotic vacations, picture-perfect relationships, and impressive achievements can make us question our self-worth and feel like we’re not measuring up to the supposed “standards” set by others.

This constant comparison, one that often happens passively, can take a toll on our self-esteem and overall sense of well-being. We may feel pressured to keep up with the perceived success and happiness of others, instead of finding fulfillment in the things that actually make us happy and feel successful.

FOMO’s Effect on Mental Health

The psychological impact of FOMO goes beyond mere feelings of envy or frustration. Studies have shown that there actually is a correlation between FOMO and mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.

Think about how social media works—people typically share only the highlights of their lives. But when we are constantly bombarded with images of others’ best moments day after day, it’s easy to assume they live like that all the time. Comparison becomes almost inevitable.

It can then be easy to fall into a spiral of negative self-talk and self-doubt. We may start to believe that we’re missing out on some essential aspect of life or that we’re not good enough as we are. These thoughts can contribute to feelings of anxiety, loneliness, and even depression.

Moreover, FOMO can lead to the development of unhealthy coping mechanisms. In an attempt to alleviate the discomfort of feeling left out, some individuals may engage in impulsive or risky behaviors, such as excessive drinking, overindulging, or neglecting important responsibilities in pursuit of fleeting fulfillment. These behaviors can further exacerbate mental health issues and create a troublesome cycle of negative emotions and unhealthy habits.

Strategies to Manage FOMO and Associated Thoughts

While the pull of FOMO can be hard to resist, there are strategies to help manage its impact on mental health. Here are a few tips to help you cope:

1. Limit social media usage: Set boundaries around your social media consumption. Take regular breaks, unfollow accounts that trigger negative feelings, and be mindful of how much time you spend scrolling. Some apps even have timers you can set to limit your usage.
   
2. Practice mindfulness and gratitude: Find time to focus on the present moment and cultivate a sense of gratitude for the good things in your life. Engage in mindfulness practices like meditation or journaling to help shift your perspective.
   
3. Engage in fulfilling offline activities: Prioritize real-life experiences and connections. Pursue hobbies, spend quality time with loved ones, and engage in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment that don’t involve technology.
   
4. Seek professional help when necessary: If feelings of FOMO and depression persist or interfere with your daily life, that’s ok – don’t hesitate to seek the support of a mental health professional.

Professional Support for Depression in Bangkok

If you’re struggling with how to deal with depression related to FOMO or other factors, know that the professionals at  Bangkok Mental Health Hospital (BMHH) are here to help, we offer comprehensive psychiatric care for individuals of all ages.

Our dedicated team of qualified professionals is committed to providing personalized, evidence-based treatment tailored to your unique needs. Our goal is to help you develop the tools and strategies necessary to manage your symptoms, build resilience, and improve your overall quality of life.

Take the First Step Towards Healing

FOMO and its psychological effects can be challenging to navigate, but with the right strategies and support, it is possible to cultivate a greater sense of happiness and well-being. Contact us to learn more about our services or to schedule a consultation with our experienced mental health professionals.