How FoMO and Information Overload Impact Workplace Mental Health

New analysis from the University of Nottingham reveals that the worry of lacking out (FoMO) and info overload in digital workplaces are important threat elements for worker psychological well being, doubtlessly resulting in elevated stress and burnout. The research, revealed in SAGE Open, analyzed survey knowledge from 142 workers to discover the damaging impacts of digital working.

Elizabeth Marsh, a PhD pupil from the School of Psychology who led the research, famous, “The digital workplace is now recognized as a key strategic asset in organizations that enables worker productivity and flexibility in the 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.”

FoMO within the office is outlined as nervousness about lacking out on vital info, updates, or alternatives for interplay. While this time period has historically been related to social media, the research reveals it’s now a major concern in skilled environments. Participants reported that each info overload and the worry of lacking out had been notably detrimental to their well-being, immediately rising stress ranges associated to digital working.

Marsh emphasised,

“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 optimizing information management and supporting information literacy.”

The analysis suggests sensible steps for employers, together with optimizing the movement of data and investing in practices that help worker well-being. Dr. Alexa Spence, Professor of Psychology, added,

“Consideration of the digital workplace in work and job design is essential to not only employee productivity but also well-being in modern organizations. Where this is lacking, elevated stress and burnout as well as poorer mental health may result.”

The research, funded by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) Midland Graduate School, underscores the significance of addressing the challenges of digital working to safeguard worker psychological well being.

Learn extra about what MQ is doing to know burnout and stress within the office right here.