Navigating Summer Social Pressures and FOMO
Are you having summer FOMO or anxiety issues?
Your Instagram feed is full of beach trips, rooftop parties, and friend groups having the "best summer ever." Meanwhile, you're working, dealing with social anxiety, or just... not feeling up to even getting out of bed. Social media has skewed the word we live in and as a therapist, I deal with clients struggling with this daily. If you're in CT, DE, PA, or NJ and feeling left out of summer's highlight reel, let's talk about it.
The Summer Social Media Trap
Picture this: Sarah posts a flawless beach day with her squad, but what you don't see is that she spent two hours picking the perfect filter and felt anxious about her appearance the whole time. Jake's rooftop party looks amazing, but he's secretly stressed about whether people are having fun and if he's "cool enough." Social media shows the trailer, not the whole movie.
When FOMO Hits Hard
"Everyone's having more fun than me." "I should be doing more." "I'm missing out on the best years of my life."
As a therapist, I frequently observe this pattern. FOMO isn't really about missing events, it's about the story you tell yourself about what those events mean about you as a person. Your weekend plans or Instagram stories don't measure your worth. You need to remember that what is portrayed online is not always what is actually reality.
Setting Boundaries Without Guilt
Here's what I tell my clients: saying no to events that drain you isn't selfish - it's self-care. You don't owe anyone an explanation for choosing rest over going out, and listening to your social battery is real. Some people need more downtime to recharge, and that's completely normal!
Managing Social Anxiety Around Events
Let's say you're invited to a pool party but crowds make you anxious. Try the "soft yes" approach: "I'll try to make it" allows flexibility without the pressure. Arrive with a friend, set a two-hour limit, and have your transportation ready as an exit strategy.
When You're Staying In
I work with so many young adults who think staying home makes them boring or antisocial. Maybe you're working, saving money, dealing with mental health, or just need space - all of these are valid choices! Create summer moments that feel authentic to you: movie nights with close friends, exploring local spots, or having real conversations instead of surface-level party chat. Make sure not to self-isolate, as that can be a tricky pattern to escape, which I discuss in detail with clients.
Reality Check Time!
Remember that person posting non-stop summer content? They might be overcompensating for feeling just as insecure as you do. The friend who seems to have endless energy for social events? They might be avoiding something by staying constantly busy. Your summer doesn't need to look like anyone else's to be meaningful.
Are You Looking For Support?
If social anxiety is keeping you from connections you want, or if FOMO is seriously affecting your mental health, that's when therapy can help. I use approaches like CBT, DBT, and EMDR to help young adults build confidence in social situations and break free from comparison traps. Are you ready to break free from the traps you have? Contact for a free consultation. I am licensed in virtual therapy online in CT, DE, PA, and NJ and I specialize in helping young adults navigate social pressures and build authentic connections.