Do you ever experience “FOMO,” or the “Fear of Missing Out”? This phenomenon, defined as ‘‘the uneasy and sometimes all-consuming feeling that you’re missing out – that your peers are doing, in the know about, or in possession of more or something better than you’’ – impacts nearly three-quarters of young adults.
What is FOMO?
Before we can discuss how to deal with FOMO, we need to talk about what it is. For centuries, we’ve assumed that we’re always missing out. In other words, we believe that someone else is having more fun, or experiencing better things. With the increase of social media, this fear has also increased. Now, FOMO connotates the fear that you’re missing out on events that are fundamentally important. These events can be a party that you had to miss, a promotion at work, or any other event. However, it always implies that you’re missing out on the next big thing.
Not only can FOMO lead to an unhealthy obsession with social media but it can also be dangerous to your long-term sobriety. This is because it can cause feelings of sadness, loneliness, anxiety, and envy – for example, thinking about missing out on a party or concert due to your sobriety – and increase your risk of relapse.
How To Deal With FOMO
Perhaps the best way to quell any FOMO feelings is to focus on the here and now – and to learn to enjoy the new sober life you’re working so hard to build for yourself.
- Track your achievements. Start a journal and jot down your accomplishments, goals, and things for which you’re grateful.
- Stop comparing yourself to others. This is especially easy to do on social media – where everyone’s life seems picture perfect. Remind yourself that, despite happy pics and posts on Facebook and Instagram, everyone has their fair share of ups and downs in life.
- Give yourself a break. Especially in early recovery, it’s okay if you’re not ready to attend that party, go on that date or run that 5K. Give yourself time and set small, achievable goals to build your confidence.
- Be more mindful. Mindfulness meditation can help you stay in the moment and stop chasing the next “thrill” or event.
- Start moving. A vigorous walk or hike can help keep you calm and focused on your recovery and eliminate feelings of FOMO.
Guiding Young Men To Recovery
Red Oak Recovery® is a unique North Carolina treatment center for young men ages 18 to 30. Combining recreational therapy, clinical treatment, and healthy nutrition into gender-specific programs, our licensed staff will tailor a treatment program to your individual needs. We treat a variety of addictions, including:
Are you still wondering how to deal with FOMO? Are you afraid of missing out on the next steps in your life while you’re in recovery? You’re not alone. Our experts can show you how to deal with FOMO, and lead the life you’ve always wanted. Ready to begin your recovery? Call today at 866.457.7590.
