Digital overload taking a toll on employees

Fear of missing out (FoMO) has emerged as a significant risk factor for employee mental health, potentially contributing to increased burnout, according to a study from the University of Nottingham.

Researchers from the university’s Schools of Psychology and Medicine conducted a survey involving 142 employees to explore the “dark side” of digital working. Their finding revealed that employees who experience anxiety about missing out on information and opportunities—coupled with feeling overwhelmed by the sheer volume of digital communication—are at higher risk of stress and burnout.

Elizabeth Marsh, a PhD student at the School of Psychology, said, “The digital workplace is now recognised as a key strategic asset in organisations, enabling employee productivity and flexibility, especially in the context of hybrid working. However, the potential downside regarding employee wellbeing must also be considered, particularly given the proliferation of digital communications channels and tools since COVID.”

The study builds on earlier studies that found employees who practice mindfulness in digital environments are better shielded from stress, anxiety, and overload. In this context, FoMO is defined as the anxiety stemming from the fear of missing out on crucial information, updates, or opportunities for social interaction—a concept traditionally associated with social media but increasingly relevant in the workplace.

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“The glut of information flowing through channels such as email, intranets, or collaboration tools can lead employees to worry about missing out, as well as succumbing to overload as they strive to keep up,” Marsh added. “To help people cope with information overwhelm, series and sustained attention should be given to both optimising information management and supporting information literacy.”

The study further recommended that HR departments consider policy and training options that support employees in better managing and consuming digital information, thereby enhancing both wellbeing and productivity.

“Consideration of the digital workplace in work and job design is essential to not only employee productivity but also wellbeing in modern organisations,” Professor Alexa Spence from the School of Psychology, concluded. “Where this is lacking, elevated stress and burnout, as well as poorer mental health, may result.”