Do you ever give young people a hard time for having FOMO?
You shouldn't!!
The Fear of Missing Out, FOMO, is rooted in our brain's neurochemistry and fundamental social needs.
FOMO is linked to the brain’s reward system. When we perceive that others are engaging in rewarding activities that we’re not part of, our dopamine system is activated, creating a feeling of intense anxiety or discomfort that drives us to want to participate.
Why?
This response is rooted in our evolution, where social connection and inclusion were critical for survival. Being part of a group provided safety, resources, and support, so the threat of being excluded or left out triggers a deep, primal fear. Our brains are wired to seek connection and avoid exclusion.
In the context of athletes, this biological drive to connect and compete is magnified.
Athletes experience intense FOMO when they’re not playing or when they perceive a threat of being replaced. With the ease of transferring schools and the constant movement of players, the pressure to maintain a starting position or secure playing time is relentless. The fear of being "recruited over" – where a coach brings in a new player to potentially take an existing player’s spot – taps directly into this primal fear of exclusion.
The constant pressure to stay relevant and avoid being left out or replaced can create a cycle of stress and anxiety, driven by the same dopamine mechanisms that underlie FOMO. Athletes are not just competing on the field; they are battling a deep-seated biological urge to remain connected and valued within their teams and ultimate in their lives.
Tomorrow I will post steps about how to mitigate FOMO and anxiety among all athletes with intentional steps that you can implement now!
#connectionmatters #athletementalhealth