As we head into 2025, one thing is clear—Zoom calls are here to stay, whether we’re chatting with friends, holding family reunions, or wrapping up big projects with coworkers. Yet, many of us might not realize just how taxing these virtual meetups can be on our minds and bodies. Studies show that extended video conferencing can lead to something termed “Zoom fatigue,” which is more than just feeling a bit sleepy after a long day of calls; it’s a real emotional and mental drain that many are facing today.
What is Zoom Fatigue?
Zoom fatigue has become a common term used since the start of the pandemic. It’s not just about being tired after a long day of video calls; many psychologists identified it as a genuine condition characterized by physical and psychological exhaustion from frequent online meetings. Dr. Anna Carolina Queiroz, a psychologist, explains that the way we view ourselves during these calls—especially in the self-view function—can increase feelings of fatigue. In fact, studies suggest that the more we look at ourselves while chatting, the more drained we may feel, with many people reporting that women seem to experience this fatigue more than men.
Why Do We Feel Tired?
So, why do video calls leave people feeling so exhausted? There are a few reasons for this:
- Extended meetings can lead to negative attitudes and increased fatigue.
- Being constantly aware of our appearances during video calls contributes to feelings of dissatisfaction—this phenomenon has even been termed “Zoom dysmorphia.”
- Research suggests that prolonged use of virtual backgrounds can add to feelings of exhaustion. In contrast, using simple or nature-themed static backgrounds can help reduce this fatigue.
How to Combat Zoom Fatigue
Many researchers and psychologists are looking for ways to help ease the exhaustion caused by virtual meetings. Here are some strategies they suggest:
- Switching to smaller group meetings can create a more comfortable atmosphere.
- Keeping meetings short and engaging is recommended to prevent fatigue from setting in.
- Utilizing a ‘speaker view’ where participants see only the active speaker instead of everyone on the call can also help ease the burden.
- Taking a break after long meetings and allowing for small moments of mindfulness can recharge our minds.
A New Call for Changes
The recommendations are not just for individuals to apply, but also for video conferencing platforms like Zoom and Teams. Some researchers believe these platforms should look into better privacy settings, enhance lighting options, and provide tools that use AI to detect when users need a break. This could help reduce feelings of distress and fatigue that so many are currently experiencing.
Conclusion: A Shared Challenge
It seems like video calls have become a necessary part of our lives, especially as we transition into a world where remote work may be more common. Whether you are sending a quick message, assembling to strategize new projects, or simply catching up with old friends, being mindful of our emotional and physical wellbeing during these encounters is essential. By understanding how Zoom calls can affect us and actively working to improve our digital meeting experiences, we can hopefully enjoy more engaging, productive, and less exhausting interactions in the world of video conferencing.