ZOOM FATIGUE
The Coronavirus pandemic has made it difficult for people to meet in person. Hundreds of millions have therefore been using Zoom to connect online with colleagues, family, and friends. However, Zoom meetings often leave participants very tired. This feeling is so common that it even has a name: "Zoom fatigue." Of course, it could be caused simply by spending many hours in front of a computer. But studies have shown that there are other reasons as well.(lines 1–5)
According to psychologist Dr. Alice Barton, participants in Zoom meetings look mainly at each other's faces. "This is a problem because when we're speaking, people's body movements show us how they're reacting to what we're saying. They also help us see when someone wants to join the conversation," explains Barton. "When we don't see these movements, it's difficult and tiring to follow the discussion."(lines 6–10)
Another cause of Zoom fatigue is stress. "During meetings we feel like everyone is watching us. We want to show that we're paying attention, so we sit without moving and look straight at the camera," says Barton. "But it's very tiring to worry constantly about being watched. The stress also makes it hard to concentrate on the discussion." That is why she recommends allowing people to turn off their cameras for a short time during Zoom meetings. This will help them relax and concentrate better.(lines 11–15)
There are other reasons why Zoom meetings can be stressful. "When we meet people at the office, we have fun joking and chatting with them," says Barton. "But on Zoom we don't do that because the meetings are all about work." The fact that we join Zoom from home can cause stress too, she adds. "Our colleagues and bosses might 'enter' our homes when we are unprepared – for example, when the kids are running around. This makes everyone uncomfortable."(lines 16–20)
Some experts are less concerned about such problems. "Zoom can be a wonderful tool. You just need to use it properly," claims office manager Andrew Morrison. "For example, make sure there are breaks during the meeting. That way, everyone can stretch their legs or get a cup of coffee. Things like this can make Zoom meetings a more positive experience."(lines 21–24)