FoMO is a key driver of workplace burnout, new study reveals

Employees who are worried about missing out on information are more likely to suffer stress and burnout

A new study from the University of Nottingham has highlighted the impact of Fear of Missing Out (FoMO) and information overload on employee mental health, linking these factors to increased burnout in the workplace.

The research, conducted by the University’s Schools of Psychology and Medicine and recently published in SAGE Open, surveyed 142 employees to explore the ‘dark side’ of digital working.

It found that employees who are worried about missing out on important information and updates, as well as those overwhelmed by the constant flow of information, are more likely to suffer stress and burnout.

Elizabeth Marsh, a PhD student from the School of Psychology, highlighted: “The digital workplace is now recognised as a key strategic asset in organisations that enables worker productivity and flexibility in context of hybrid working. However, the potential downsides in terms of worker well-being also need to be considered, especially given the proliferation of digital communication channels and tools since Covid.”

The study’s findings support the team’s previous research, which indicated employees who are more mindful in the digital workplace are better protected against stress, anxiety and overload.

Traditionally, FoMO has been associated with social media. Now, this new research has shown its impact in the workplace.

Participants in the study were surveyed about their experiences with the negative aspects of the digital workplace, including stress, information overload, anxiety, and fear of missing out, and how these factors impacted their well-being.

The findings revealed that feeling overwhelmed by information and fearing missing out on it were particularly harmful to well-being. These factors directly contributed to increased stress levels associated with digital work environments.

Elizabeth explained: “The glut of information flowing through channels such as email, intranets or collaboration tools can lead workers to worry about missing out on it as well as succumbing to overload as they strive to keep up.

“To help people cope with information overwhelm, serious and sustained attention should be given to both optimising information management and supporting information literacy.”

The study has suggested some practical solutions for employers, including investing in practices to optimise the amount and flow of information to employees.

HR departments are encouraged to develop policies and training programmes that would support employees to “better access, manage and consume information in a way that is conducive to well-being as well as productivity.”

Professor Alexa Spence from the School of Psychology emphasised the importance of integrating the digital workplace into work and job design, noting that it is crucial for both employee productivity and well-being in modern organisations.

She warned that neglecting this aspect could lead to increased stress, burnout, and poorer mental health.

“Our findings indicate the information ecosystem as an important area for attention both inside organisations and among the research community,” she noted.