Information overload and fear of missing out fuel stress and burnout in digital workplaces, study finds

The post-pandemic workplace has seen a dramatic shift towards digital transformation, with a rise in online and hybrid jobs. Even traditional workplace positions rely heavily on digital technology, which is reshaping organizational structures and work dynamics. While digital technology brings advantages such as convenience and flexibility, it also has significant disadvantages, which contribute to stressburnout, job fatigue and even technology phobia.

A new study from the University of Nottingham’s Schools of Psychology and Medicine has identified two key factors behind workplace burnout, known as the “dark side effects of work”. Digital workplace.”

Two factors that lead to Burnout and exhaustion:

1. Information overload:

The constant connectivity facilitated by digital tools means that employees never truly disconnect from their work, at least virtually. This continuous use of digital platforms leads to frequent interruptions and blurs the boundaries between personal and professional life. The constant flow of emails and messages requires employees to always remain on their toes, contributing to burnout and stress. The ease of access to work emails can also foster workaholic tendencies, as employees feel compelled to check their notifications and respond promptly, even outside of work hours.

2. Fear of missing out (Missing Out (FOMO)):

In today’s digitally connected world, there is a widespread fear of missing out on important updates or opportunities. This fear leads employees to constantly check their notifications and information sources to avoid missing out on critical information. This persistent state of alertness and vigilance contributes to stress at work and burnout. FOMO is closely linked to information overload in a cycle where anxiety about missing out leads to more frequent checking of digital devices, which in turn increases stress due to the continuous consumption of work-related information.

When employees try to disconnect momentarily, whether to focus on a task or relax at home, the intense fear of missing out on an important update can make them feel neglectful, which could affect their perceived work performance. The study highlights that among the challenges of a digital workplace, FOMO poses the greatest risk to employees’ mental health.

The researchers suggest that employers should develop strategies to manage the amount and flow of information provided to employees. They also recommend that human resources departments consider implementing policies and training programs to help employees use digital tools more effectively and healthily. These measures aim to enable employees to access, manage, and process information in a way that supports their well-being and productivity.