FOMO (Fear of Missing Out): A Modern Psychological Phenomenon in the Digital Era

Abstract

Background: The Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) has become a psychological and behavioral concern in modern society, particularly among youth and health professionals exposed to social media.
Aim: To explore the concept, causes, psychological implications, and management strategies of FOMO, highlighting its relevance to nursing and health education.
Methods: A narrative review was conducted from peer-reviewed literature published between 2013–2024, retrieved from databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar.
Results: FOMO is associated with anxiety, low self-esteem, poor sleep, and overuse of social media. It negatively affects academic and professional performance and contributes to digital addiction.
Conclusion: Promoting digital literacy, mindfulness, and emotional awareness are key to overcoming FOMO. Integrating such interventions into nursing curricula can enhance mental well-being and professional balance