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Zoom fatigue: How The Online Work Schedule Is Affecting Us

Dr. Sreelekha Daruvuri

3 Min Read

Fast Check Fact Checked

It’s been a while since the world has operated on non COVID-19 pandemic mode. The novel virus brought some devastating changes to the world’s population, and with that changed the lifestyle of many working individuals. Work from home sounded like the best solution when the pandemic started out, but over time working online took a toll on many individuals. Have you heard about zoom fatigue? It’s real and can be really challenging for some. Your work schedule is innately part of your everyday life, and so completely switching to working online can evidently take a toll on your mental health.

What is Zoom fatigue?

Zoom fatigue, also called virtual fatigue, commonly causes extreme exhaustion or feelings of being completely drained. It can very easily resemble symptoms of a mental burnout. The reason behind this, as per experts, is the constant and unfamiliar expectations and demands over multiple video calls throughout a work day. The difference in communication without social content can be alarming over a period of time.

What causes Zoom fatigue?

Excessive close up eye contact for long durations causes fatigue. When people attend meetings or catch ups, they tend to often multitask. Also, looking at one’s own image constantly like carrying a mirror is draining.

Symptoms of Zoom fatigue

– Episodes of difficulty in concentration
– Increased episodes of forgetfulness
– Feelings of anger and frustration towards colleagues
– Feelings of anxiety and fear during, before or after work calls
– Difficult in maintaining a work-life balance
– Physical manifestations of stress such as muscle pain, joint stiffness, exhaustion, insomnia, anxiety or panic attacks etc

How to cope with Zoom fatigue?

Zoom fatigue

The reason many find video calls draining or go through Zoom fatigue is because they have to focus a lot more. This is a lot of pressure cognitively. Looking at a screen all day to work, and then doing the same to converse can be mentally taxing.

– Keep multitasking at a minimum and reduce on screen stimuli
– Take a mental break 15 minutes before a video meeting
– Don’t overbook your schedule
– Keep distractions at bay: avoid texting, flipping through tabs, looking at messages or emails etc
– Take breaks during long video conferences

Also, remember, if it can be emailed or messaged, it doesn’t have to be a meeting.

Zoom fatigue is real, and while it may be taboo to talk about, can be serious. Mental health deterioration can also affect our physical health. If you’re feeling that your job is mentally taxing, voicing it out can help. Speak to colleague, senior, manager or even HR in order to think of ways to reduce virtual meetings. There is a likely chance that you’re not the only one feeling this way.

If it gets hard to cope with Zoom fatigue, you can choose to speak with a mental health specialist. A psychotherapist will be able to help you with tools to cope with your exhaustion and mental state. This way, you’re more apt, productive, happier and healthier with your job. There are various work from home struggles such as work related stress and even back pain. But, there are ways to help yourself during these exhaustive times. Learn of ways to solve work from home challenges along with ways to stay fit – this can also help your mental health substantially.

You’d go to a professional if you had a physical injury right? Well, your mental health should also be of equal priority. MFine’s 2-Month Mental Health Care Plan gives you the ease of flexibility and quality treatment quickly. The customized program designed for you will help you acess advice on daily care along with therapy sessions. The plan also includes daily supervision and assessments so you know your progress.