Zoom Fatigue
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Yes, it is a real term people use in 2024.
Yes, it is related to digital wellness, digital addictions, etc.
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Nov 12, 2024 09:56 PM
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Zoom Fatigue
[zoom fuh-teeg]
What Is Zoom Fatigue?
Zoom fatigue refers to the mental exhaustion that comes from too many video calls and virtual meetings. It's that drained feeling you get after spending hours on video conferences, whether it's actually Zoom or any other video platform.
Word Origins:
"Zoom fatigue" emerged in early 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, combining "Zoom" (the popular video conferencing platform launched in 2011) with "fatigue" (from Latin "fatigare" meaning "to tire"). The term became widely used as millions shifted to remote work and virtual meetings became the norm.
Why Video Calls Are More Tiring
Unlike in-person meetings, video calls require more mental energy because we need to work harder to process non-verbal cues. We're also constantly seeing ourselves on screen (like a mirror all day), having to stay in camera view, and dealing with slight audio delays that disrupt natural conversation flow.
Managing Zoom Fatigue
- Take regular breaks between calls (at least 10 minutes)
- Turn off self-view during meetings
- Switch to phone calls when video isn't necessary
- Use "Hide Self View" feature
- Schedule shorter meetings (25 or 50 minutes instead of 30 or 60)
- Try standing or walking during some calls
Related Terms
- Digital Exhaustion: Mental and physical tiredness from excessive digital device use
- Virtual Fatigue: General tiredness from extended time in virtual environments
- Digital Wellness: Maintaining a healthy balance with digital technology use
- Screen Fatigue: Eye strain and mental exhaustion from looking at screens for extended periods