Zoom Fatigue
During the COVID-19 pandemic, we learned the hard way that being on Zoom, or any other video conferencing system, wears us down.
Zoom fatigue is physical and mental exhaustion experienced after spending a long time on video conference calls. This isn’t a medical diagnosis (which is good because I’m not a doctor), it is a well documented problem. Zoom Fatigue can lead to: Eye Strain, Headaches, Irritability, Anxiety, … the list goes on. (I’m getting tired just writing it.)
Reduce the Harm from Zoom Fatigue
A few things we’ve learned can reduce the harm:
- Breaks between meetings help your brain reset - 5-10 mins
- Breaks need to be away from the computer - step outside; meditate; stretch - no screens
- Make meetings more intentional, effective, and shorter
- Our brains are not designed to see ourselves all day. Turn off the self view in your video tool.
Resource Links
- How to combat Zoom Fatigue
- Four causes of Zoom Fatigue and their Solutions
- Microsoft Research - Your Brain needs a break between meetings
- Work from Home Burnout and Zoom Fatigue are more complex than you think
- “Zoom Fatigue” Disproportionately Affects Women And New Hires -Zoom Fatigue and How to Prevent It