Fear of missing out (FoMO) has emerged as a significant risk factor for employee mental health and, along with information overload, may contribute to burnout, according to recent research.
A study conducted by the University of Nottingham analyzed survey data from 142 employees to explore the “dark side” of digital work environments. The findings suggest that employees who worry about missing out on information and feel overwhelmed by it are more likely to experience stress and burnout.
Digital workplace
“The digital workplace is now seen as a crucial strategic asset that enhances worker productivity and flexibility, especially in the context of hybrid work. However, it’s important to recognize the potential negative impacts on employee well-being, particularly with the surge in digital communication tools since COVID,” the researchers note.
This study builds on earlier research, which found that employees who practice mindfulness in the digital workplace are better protected against stress, anxiety, and information overload.
In this context, FoMO is defined as the anxiety over missing out on important information, updates, and opportunities for interactions. While FoMO has been commonly associated with social media, this research highlights its growing relevance in the workplace.
Stress and burnout
Participants in the study were surveyed about their experiences with the darker aspects of the digital workplace, such as stress, overload, anxiety, and FoMO, and how these factors affected their well-being.
The results revealed that concerns related to information—both the fear of missing out and feeling overloaded—were particularly harmful to well-being, directly increasing stress levels associated with digital work.
“The flood of information from channels like email, intranets, or collaboration tools can cause workers to worry about missing out, while also overwhelming them as they try to keep up,” the researchers explain. “To help employees manage information overload, there needs to be a strong focus on optimizing information management and enhancing information literacy.”
The study offers practical advice for employers, suggesting that they invest in improving the flow and volume of information to employees. These insights could guide HR departments in developing policies and training programs that help employees better manage and process information in ways that support both well-being and productivity.
“Designing the digital workplace with careful attention to information management is crucial not only for employee productivity but also for their well-being. Without this, higher stress, burnout, and poorer mental health outcomes may follow. Our findings underscore the importance of focusing on the information ecosystem within organizations and for further research,” the researchers conclude.
