Many people struggle with FOMO, aka the “Fear of Missing Out.” This term refers to the feelings of loneliness and emptiness people sometimes feel when they’re worried their friends and loved ones are somehow happier or enjoying life without them. Everyone struggles with feelings of loneliness and even FOMO from time to time, but it seems to rear its ugly head in our darkest moments. When you’re already discouraged, struggling, or focusing on yourself for long periods of time, FOMO can make you feel even worse. For this reason, FOMO can be particularly stressful for those recovering from addiction. Here are some ways to cope and, hopefully, overcome FOMO.
1. Exercise
A lot of people are sick of hearing the benefits of exercise, but it really couldn’t be better for your mind
and your body. Besides all the obvious benefits like weight loss, cardiovascular health, etc., exercise helps keep your brain functioning at its best. In fact,
exercise is proven to boost feelings of calmness and reduce depression and anxiety (both of which contribute to FOMO).
If you’re not already exercising regularly, consider adding a daily job or yoga session to help boost those endorphins and increase your energy. What do you have to lose?
2. Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness isn’t exactly the same as meditation, but they do usually go hand-in-hand. Mindfulness is the art of staying present in each and every moment. Instead of focusing on the past or the future, people who practice mindfulness are simply aware and grateful for the moment that is currently happening.
It’s hard to succumb to FOMO when you’re focused on the present. Instead of wondering what other people are doing, you’re appreciative of your own life and actions.
Meditation can certainly help people learn to develop mindfulness, but that’s not the only way to encourage the skill. Ideally, mindfulness becomes part of every action, every day. You can even learn to watch TV mindfully, just by focusing on your environment and letting go of all extraneous thoughts.
3. Keep a Gratitude Journal.
Journaling is an age-old custom that still benefits many people today. It’s one of the best ways to pour your thoughts out without worrying about other people’s judgment or condemnation.
There are many different types of journals that can help FOMO, but a gratitude journal seems to be the most beneficial. Each day, write down at least five things that make you grateful. Really focus on these things, and try not to use the same five things every day.
If you’re having a particularly difficult day, look back on past journal entries to help you remember better times. Many times, FOMO can make you feel like you’ll never be content again when it’s really just a temporary feeling that will pass quickly.
How We Can Help
The Meadows Texas focuses on treating addiction by offering opportunities to help focus the mind. Because addiction often begins with feelings of depression or anxiety, we include meditation, yoga, and other treatments along with our traditional treatment options. We also take an individualized approach to recovery with therapists ready to help talk through any issues you may face, including FOMO.
Our goal is to help you through addiction recovery with tools and techniques to help you stay sober no matter what life may throw your way in the future.
