Do UAE residents experience the fear of switching off?

Do UAE residents experience the fear of switching off?

Published: Sat 13 Jan 2024, 6:00 AM

As people return from their winter travels and rejoin work, experts in the UAE highlight that they are encountering individuals grappling with anxiety linked to the “fear of switching off” (FOSO).

Psychiatrists underline this as a phenomenon that has been visible both preceding and following residents’ travels.

The term FOSO describes the uneasiness or reluctance people feel when they have to cut off from their obligations, technology, or jobs, especially on holidays or during weekends.

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It shows itself as a worry about losing out on crucial knowledge or chances, or a fear of being “seen as less dedicated”, explained Dr Adnan Ahmadiazad, specialist psychiatrist, Thumbay University Hospital.

Guilt when away from work

Dr Ahmadiazad said: “I frequently come across people who are experiencing anxiety connected to FOSO, both before and after travel. Some clients say they feel guilty or restless when they try to unwind on vacation, while others worry about switching off from work.”

Medics indicate that FOSO also has a lasting impact on the affected individual’s overall wellbeing.

“People may have difficulties adjusting to work expectations after travel, which suggests that FOSO has a long-lasting effect on