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NDTV
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- NDTV
Why Wednesday's Killer Punchline On FOBI Is The Defining Gen Z Mood
Wednesday season 2 is here, and while there are plenty of moments that might stick with you after binge-watching the whole series, one scene stood out for me. It's when Wednesday Addams, asked by her new principal to join in the festivities so she doesn't miss out, simply replies, "I've FOBI, Fear Of Being Included." And it hit me. Usually I have FOBI too, but with the new season of Wednesday I had FOMO, so I already watched it all #Wednesday — Prol_x (@prol_x) August 6, 2025 As someone who loves making plans but also secretly feels relieved when they get cancelled (without my doing), I realised there's actually a name for this feeling - and it's not as rare as it sounds. If you also feel the same, you're not alone. Turns out, FOBI is quite real. So, What Actually Is FOBI FOBI (Fear of Being Included) describes that uneasy feeling when you'd rather not be invited to join the group. It's the opposite of FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) - instead of worrying you'll be left out, you're stressed about being pulled in. It's not exactly introversion or general social anxiety. FOBI is more specific - it's about the mental load and energy drain that can come with social inclusion. For some, each new invitation is like yet another browser tab opening in an already cluttered headspace. Dr Gorav Gupta, Senior Psychiatrist and CEO at Tulasi Healthcare, New Delhi, says, "Unlike FOMO, which comes from the desire to be involved with everything, FOBI is when instead of wanting to be involved, one wants the space, freedom and the avoidance of unwanted and/or forced interactions with others. It's not any better or worse than FOMO, it just reflects an individual's personality in terms of how their boundaries for social space and solitude are perceived." How It Plays Out In Daily Life For those with FOBI, back-to-back social invitations or constant group activities can feel exhausting. "Individuals may begin to withdraw from gatherings or even reject calls or think about updating in a group chat or in a group plan. Ultimately, FOBI can turn to not showing up or attending social gatherings along with misconceptions and even getting labeled as rude or distant," says Dr Gupta. And it's not just an introvert thing. Anyone can get FOBI when social obligations pile up, even if they're normally sociable. Gen Z, in particular, seems to be talking about it more - perhaps because they're also more open about setting boundaries. Work life isn't immune either. That "quick" extra meeting, the team lunch you didn't ask for, or the post-office drinks can all feel like too much. FOBI can also sneak into romantic relationships when new commitments feel like obligations rather than shared joy. The tricky bit is that while valuing independence is healthy, over-analysing or dodging every invite can chip away at friendships, work relationships, and even mental health. Is JOMO Better? The Joy of Missing Out (JOMO) is far better according to experts. It's the calm, guilt-free decision to opt out, without dread or self-criticism. Practice JOMO lets you disconnect, focus on your own needs, and enjoy the present moment, no FOMO, no FOBI. Think of it as a mindful choice rather than a knee-jerk escape. It's about saying no because you want to, not because you feel you have to. FOBI Vs FOMO Sushmita Upadhaya, Clinical Psychologist, says that both FOMO and FOBI can lead to stress, burnout, and a distorted sense of reality. "While FOMO pushes us to do more, FOBI pressures us to avoid unwanted involvement and both disrupt peace of mind. On the other hand, JOMO, or the Joy of Missing Out, -the feeling that 'I rather stay home'offers a healthier choice," she adds. In absolute terms, It's about enjoying being one self, setting limits, and finding peace in being offline. Instead of chasing attention or fearing exclusion, JOMO focuses on being present, valuing privacy, and having purpose. So, to answer Yes, JOMO is absolutely better . While FOBI and FOMO creates anxiety and comparisons, JOMO encourages mindfulness and self-worth. In a world filled with the race of social media , choosing to disconnect can be the most empowering choice of all. The Final Takeway While FOBI is not a formally recognized clinical diagnosis, it is a sign that constant inclusion isn't everyone's idea of a good time. The relief of not being invited can be real—but left unchecked, it risks closing the door on meaningful connections. The sweet spot lies somewhere in between: saying yes when it genuinely feels right, and no when you need the space. Because in the end, balance beats both FOMO and FOBI. Take lessons from Wednesday Addams - well, maybe
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Business Standard
30-07-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
From racing thoughts to restlessness, how to deal with sleep anxiety
What is sleep anxiety and how is it different from insomnia? If, despite feeling exhausted, you are unable to sleep, find your mind racing with thoughts and your body resisting rest, you might be experiencing sleep anxiety. According to Dr Astik Joshi, Child, Adolescent and Forensic Psychiatrist at Veda Clinic, Delhi, and Fortis Shalimar Bagh, sleep anxiety is becoming an increasingly common phenomenon, especially among young professionals navigating high-pressure jobs, digital overload, and endless to-do lists. How is sleep anxiety different from insomnia or general anxiety? 'Sleep anxiety refers to the persistent worry or fear associated with the act of falling asleep or staying asleep,' said Dr Gorav Gupta, Senior Psychiatrist and CEO of Tulasi Healthcare. 'Unlike general anxiety, which is broad and can affect various areas of life, sleep anxiety is specifically about sleep,' he added. Unlike insomnia, where the issue is sleep disruption regardless of cause, sleep anxiety is about anticipatory fear: the fear of not being able to sleep becomes the very reason you can't sleep. It's a vicious cycle. What are the causes of sleep anxiety? For most people, it's not just one thing. Psychological causes may include: Work stress and performance pressure Overthinking Unresolved trauma or chronic stress Physiological causes can include: An overactive sympathetic nervous system Elevated nighttime cortisol (stress hormone) Disruptions in melatonin levels Poor bedtime habits like caffeine late in the day, social media scrolling, or intense conversations before bed can compound these issues. What are the symptoms of sleep anxiety? Not every restless night indicates sleep anxiety. But if the following sound familiar, it may be time to take note: Nervousness or tension at bedtime Racing thoughts as you try to sleep Obsessive clock-checking Feeling unrefreshed even after hours of sleep Dr Joshi explained that difficulty falling or staying asleep due to anxiety, coupled with not feeling rested, are hallmark signs. 'When this starts interfering with your work, relationships, or daily functioning, it's no longer just a phase—it needs intervention,' he said. Could sleep anxiety have a medical cause too? Sleep anxiety can also stem from medical conditions such as: Restless leg syndrome Sleep apnea Chronic pain disorders Breathing abnormalities 'Before assuming it's just stress, we advise a proper evidence-based sleep evaluation,' said Dr Joshi. 'Depending on findings, you may be referred to a psychiatrist, psychologist, or sleep specialist,' he added. What are the treatment options for sleep anxiety? 'Management is best done by addressing the underlying cause, whether psychological, medical, or lifestyle-related,' said Dr Joshi. Treatment approaches include: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) Mindfulness and relaxation techniques Sleep hygiene routines Medications (melatonin, sedating antidepressants, anti-anxiety drugs) – under supervision only Dr Gupta added, 'The decision to use medication should always be made after a risk-benefit discussion with the patient. Informed consent matters.' Can changing your routine fix sleep anxiety? Yes, and it's the first thing doctors recommend. According to both experts, key behavioural changes include: Sleeping and waking at the same time every day Avoiding screens 30–60 minutes before bed Reducing caffeine intake in the evening Establishing a bedtime ritual (reading, shower, music, light stretches) Keeping the bed reserved only for sleep and intimacy Ensuring the room is cool, dark, and quiet These cues help signal to the brain that it's time to relax. Do sleep trackers help or hurt anxiety? They may do more harm than good. 'There's a phenomenon called orthosomnia,' Dr Gupta explained, 'where people get obsessed with achieving perfect sleep scores. The stress of trying to sleep well becomes a new source of anxiety.' People with health anxiety or perfectionist tendencies should avoid these apps unless recommended by a specialist. When should you consult a doctor for sleep anxiety? Seek professional help if your sleep issues: Happen three or more times a week Last for more than three months Affect your mood, productivity, or daily life Both doctors agree that sleep anxiety is a multifactorial condition—rooted in biology, psychology, and behaviour. Start with a psychiatrist or psychologist if you suspect mental health is involved. If symptoms include snoring or discomfort, a sleep medicine specialist may be needed. For more health updates, follow #HealthWithBS
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Business Standard
10-07-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
Love bad news? Why you can't stop doomscrolling and how to break free
Experts explain how doomscrolling triggers anxiety, sleep issues, and chronic stress-and what you can do to break free from compulsive news checking Barkha Mathur New Delhi In a world gripped by uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, economic instability, and public health scares, many of us find ourselves compulsively scrolling through a constant stream of alarming news. This behaviour, known as doomscrolling, has become an epidemic. While it may feel like staying informed, it often leaves us feeling anxious, exhausted, and emotionally overwhelmed. As this digital habit tightens its grip, it's time to ask: how do we break free? According to Dr Gorav Gupta, Senior Psychiatrist at Tulasi Healthcare, Gurugram, doomscrolling is the compulsive consumption of distressing or negative news online—something most of us are guilty of, especially during uncertain times. Dr Gupta explained, 'It's often a maladaptive coping mechanism. People turn to doomscrolling to manage anxiety or to feel in control, but it ironically reinforces fear and stress.' He said that our brains are wired to respond to fear. 'Every scary headline or viral video triggers our threat-detection system, releasing cortisol and dopamine. That dopamine hit gives us a false sense of control, making us want to keep scrolling even though it's emotionally draining.' How does doomscrolling affect your mental and physical health? Dr Gupta warns that over time, this habit can lead to: Heightened anxiety and emotional exhaustion Sleep disturbances Increased risk of depression and burnout Reduced emotional resilience and constant irritability Chronic stress due to disrupted cortisol and dopamine levels And for those already dealing with anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), doomscrolling acts like fuel on fire, intensifying symptoms such as hypervigilance, intrusive thoughts, or panic attacks. It can also trigger broader social consequences, such as: A rise in collective anxiety Increased emotional numbness Social withdrawal and reduced civic engagement Public polarisation driven by misinformation Why can't I stop refreshing my feed? 'This stuff is addictive,' said Dr Gupta. He explained that amid conflicts plaguing various parts of the world, including the recent escalation of tension between India and Pakistan, social media platforms like X, YouTube, and Telegram are flooded with dramatic headlines, real-time footage of troop movements, and speculative analyses about the potential for escalation. The result? An endless loop of fear-driven engagement. 'People keep checking for updates because they believe staying informed helps them feel safe,' said Dr Gupta. 'But this behaviour can backfire by increasing stress and a sense of helplessness.' What are expert-recommended ways to stop doomscrolling? Dr Gupta suggested staying informed without being overwhelmed. 'It starts with mindful changes,' he said. He recommended: 'You can also try to be more present and intentional with your scrolling. So when your thumb moves toward that news app out of habit, pause. Ask yourself, is this information helping me or hurting me?' concluded Dr Gupta.
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Business Standard
19-06-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
Is your office bestie good for your mental health? Here is what doctors say
Doctors say workplace friendships can reduce stress, support resilience and act as emotional anchors in high-pressure jobs New Delhi Have you ever noticed how just one coffee break with your favourite colleague can turn a draining day into a bearable one? Or how even a small venting session helps your mind finally relax? Experts say that it is not just feel-good fluff, it's neuroscience in action. Having a close friend at work (your work BFF) might be doing a lot more for your mental health than you think. According to Dr Munia Bhattacharya, Senior Consultant, Clinical Psychology, Marengo Asia Hospitals, and Dr Gorav Gupta, Senior Psychiatrist & CEO at Tulasi Healthcare, the presence of a close friend at work offers emotional safety, validation, and immediate support. 'These bonds can ease loneliness, reduce anxiety, and offer an emotional buffer against everyday workplace pressures,' said Dr Bhattacharya. 'They provide a sense of being understood, which is incredibly grounding, especially in high-stress jobs.' How do workplace friendships affect mental health? According to Dr Gupta, work friendships are linked to a reduction in cortisol, the hormone that spikes during stress, and an increase in oxytocin, the hormone responsible for social bonding. He explained that this hormonal balance has wide-reaching effects on the body. 'When cortisol remains high due to chronic stress, it can suppress your immune system, disturb sleep, and increase your risk of anxiety and depression,' explained Dr Gupta. 'Oxytocin, on the other hand, calms the nervous system. When you feel emotionally safe with someone, your body responds positively, your heart rate slows, blood pressure stabilises, and your mood lifts.' Workplace friendships as important as professional mental health support, say experts The doctors said that while friendships shouldn't replace therapy, they can offer real-time emotional relief that is both accessible and effective. 'A good friend at work is not a therapist, but they can be a great first responder for your emotional needs,' said Dr Bhattacharya. 'They validate your experiences, help you regain perspective, and simply make you feel less alone in navigating the pressures of professional life.' This sense of connection can boost morale, reduce symptoms of burnout, and help people stay mentally engaged in their roles, she added. Young professionals benefit more from these bonds Young professionals often face uncertainty, high performance expectations, and a sense of social disconnection, especially in hybrid or remote setups. In this context, a strong workplace friendship can be life-changing. 'Millennials and Gen Z workers are more open about mental health but also more vulnerable to isolation at work,' said Dr Gupta. 'A friend who checks in, shares a laugh, or just listens without judgment can make all the difference to their daily mental resilience.' What if you're an introvert? Not everyone finds it easy to form social bonds. Introverts may prefer fewer but deeper connections. Neurodivergent individuals, such as those with autism or ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder), might face challenges in communication, social cues, or navigating group dynamics. 'Workplaces need to be inclusive and sensitive,' Dr Bhattacharya emphasised. 'Social connection is a human need, but it looks different for everyone. An introvert might thrive with one meaningful relationship, while a neurodivergent individual might connect better through structured, shared activities.' What matters is not the number of friends, but the quality of emotional support they offer. Are there any downsides to workplace friendships? As with all relationships, things can sometimes go wrong. Tensions, miscommunications, or competitiveness can create emotional strain, especially when personal and professional boundaries get blurred. 'Friendship fallouts at work can feel devastating,' warned Dr Gupta. 'They can lead to awkwardness, gossip, or even disengagement. It's important to have boundaries, respect space, and prioritise clear communication.' Still, the benefits far outweigh the risks, especially when the friendships are built on trust, empathy, and mutual respect. These bonds crucial in high-stress industries, say experts In fields like healthcare, media, finance, or law enforcement, where burnout is common, the presence of workplace allies becomes vital. 'These professions are emotionally demanding,' said Dr Bhattacharya. 'You're constantly juggling patients, clients, and deadlines. A work friend is someone who gives back to you emotionally, even if it's just a small gesture or a shared moment of humour. The result? More emotional balance, better coping mechanisms, and higher resilience to stress.' So should you invest in a workplace friendship? Doctors said, you should. Building a workplace friendship doesn't require being an office extrovert. It can start with a kind message, shared breaks, or simply checking in. 'Genuine friendships at work can act like emotional armour,' said Dr Gupta. 'They help you navigate not just your workload but your emotional load too.' In today's fast-paced, hyper-connected world, a meaningful work friendship might be one of the most underappreciated yet powerful tools for better mental health.
NDTV
31-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- NDTV
Matcha Latte To Labubu Charms, Why Gen Z Is All About The 'Little Treat Culture'
No one vouches for 'little treats' like Gen Z does. It is a term that they have coined for periodical - daily or weekly indulgences, such as their favourite matcha latte, fresh bakes, weekly manicures, a luxury lip treatment, a stuffed toy or a Labubu charm, or a trinket they always wanted to get their hands on. It might serve as a momentary dopamine hit, and more, as a form of practicing self-love and self-care. What Is The 'Little Treats Culture'? Little treats culture is an on-trend lifestyle practice where Gen Z makes use of small delights and pleasurable experiences such as snacks or treats from time to time, to keep themselves motivated. This motivation is to keep up with their daily tasks while overcoming all the hiccups and hurdles that are part of daily life. This trend, like all trends these days, is social media-fuelled. Take, for example, the Labubu dolls and the cultural storm that they have caused. Labubu is part of a character group, The Monsters. These adorable plushies have become a must-have accessory for every Gen Z (and millennial) after celebrities K-pop star Lisa were spotted with them. Or, swapping a mug of boring americano for a prettier looking matcha latte, for a premium, of course. All of these fit right in with the little treat culture, where people share how they literally bribe themselves with these small but significant treats to accomplish tasks and manage their responsibilities. It went viral on social media back in 2024, and since then, there has been no stopping for Gen Z. View this post on Instagram A post shared by rhode skin (@rhode) What Experts Say Are experts on board with the 'little treats culture'? What do they have to say? NDTV spoke to Dr Astik Joshi, Child, Adolescent & Forensic Psychiatrist from New Delhi, who backs the idea of the little treat culture. "It is about giving oneself small, enjoyable rewards like a dessert, a coffee, or even a 10-minute break as a way to cope with stress, lift mood, or acknowledge daily efforts. It's a form of self-recognition that helps people feel emotionally supported, in small ways," he says. Dr Gorav Gupta, CEO and Senior Psychiatrist, Tulasi Healthcare, Gurugram, agrees. He tells NDTV, "Little treat culture is popular because it's simple, comforting, and emotionally grounding. At a time when stress is high and big wins feel far from reality, little treats offer a sense of control, relief, and encouragement. They remind us that small joys still count, and that's a powerful message for today's generation." What Are These Little Treats? Dr Astik tells NDTV, "A chocolate is absolutely enough if it gives a sense of comfort or pleasure. In fact, a 'treat' can be anything such as a walk, music, journaling, or even saying no to something that is overwhelming. But the value lies in its emotional impact, not its size or price." Let us be honest, a little treat bandage applied over a gaping wound caused by stress, anxiety or daily life works like magic on the healing front. Little Treat Culture In The Age Of Social Media In this era of social media, it would be sheer blasphemy to not factor in the plethora of netizens' opinions, and the influence it has on Gen Z. Social media adds fuel to the engine of little treats by showcasing relatable, everyday self-care practiced by Gen Z via reels, videos, memes, and other quick content formats. While the social media storm on self-care and the joy of giving oneself a treat makes life worth living and encourages the self-treat culture, it could also introduce a pressure to keep up with these treats while not overspending on them. So, now, to the good and the bad. View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Big Chill Café (@bigchillcafe) Why The Little Treat Culture Works First, the pocket-friendliness, which makes the little treat culture attractive to Gen Z. Most Gen Z people are conscious of their finances. So, the idea of affordable treats are totally up their alley. It not only makes this culture inclusive and sustainable, but also helps them feel rewarded without a crippling financial guilt. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Theobroma Patisserie India (@theobromapatisserie) These little treats have the potential to offer periodic dopamine hits that keep us getting back to the grind. This happens while we are juggling things like hectic work weeks, intense arguments or more such triggers in real life. They also help life feel a little in control. What Little Treat Culture Does For Gen Z And What It Doesn't Dr Astik Joshi says, "This habit can offer quick emotional relief, improve motivation, and encourage self-compassion. However, it's important to understand its limits." Little treats cannot replace therapy; a much-needed deep emotional healing, or consistent mental health support when people are dealing with anxiety, depression, a burnout and more. So, while it is a source of comfort, it comes with its limitations when it comes to mental health problems. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rare Beauty by Selena Gomez (@rarebeauty) "Little treats may help your mental health positively by providing affordable rewards to self and a sense of accomplishment upon dealing with daily life stressors," Dr Astik Joshi tells NDTV. Basically, little treats work as treat-style baits you reward yourself with to help overcome things or experiences that helps you deal (better) with daily stress. Dr Astik says, "Rewarding oneself builds emotional resilience. These little acts tell the brain, 'effort is worth it,' which reinforces positive behaviour and nurtures self-worth. It supports emotional fulfilment by helping Gen Z take voluntary pauses for sheer joy." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Benefit Cosmetics India (@benefitindia) Is The Tittle Treat Culture Worth Your Money? It all lies in the name. Little treats are called little because they won't particularly break the bank. Speaking to SELF, financial therapist and speaker Lindsay Bryan-Podvin says, "Millennials and Gen Z are rejecting 'grit language' and fear of punishment as motivators. Instead, these young folks are responding to the promise of satisfaction and self-reward." While a person's emotional relationship with their comfort purchase is an important one for the pursuit of their happiness, this elusive happiness should not be the only factor that should be considered. The little treats that Gen Z sees as small expenses in the moment, certainly add up over time. View this post on Instagram A post shared by arsheen ִ𐙚 (@tooshietrash) Lindsay says, "If this sweet little treat is impacting your bottom line, then you need to be mindful about where to pull back." The key, of course, is to know when to step back. One does deserve a little treat from time to time and every bit of the joy coming their way along with it, but only till it doesn't take a heavier toll in the long run. In a world full of iced matcha lattes, peptide lip treatments, deli-made fresh bakes and shiny trinkets, all we can say is that little treats are winning. And Gen Z certainly is on board.
