More and more people feel mentally exhausted as a result of increased video conferencing. This phenomenon has been dubbed "Zoom fatigue" (although not particular to this specific video conferencing application). It is also likely that feelings of isolation during the quarantine contributes to this fatigue, but this phenomenon is centered around the increased use of video conferencing.

There are many factors that contribute to this fatigue:

- Technical issues - There are numerous potential technical issues that make video conferencing frustrating, from a faulty webcam to echoing audio to bad reception. Not only can all of these be tiring to deal with, but tend to be distraction and make the meeting longer

- Being constantly attentive - In a video conference, there is a constant focus on the face. Callers feel more pressure to be constantly alert because they are always on screen even if they are not the focus of the conversation. Everyone can always see everyone.

- Looking in a mirror - Not only can everyone see the caller, but the caller can see themselves. It is easy for one to become self-conscious when they constantly see their own image. In addition, they can become distracted by their own appearance, especially if they are self-conscious, instead of being part of the meeting.

- Distracting backgrounds - Many telecommuters are stuck at home with family. While this is unavoidable for many, a meeting can easily be derailed by, for instance, an unusual picture on the wall or a family member crashing the meeting. While this can be endearing when it happens on a talk show, it is inappropriate for a work conference.

There are ways to mitigate or prevent becoming fatigued during teleconferences:

- Keep multitasking to a minimum - Because teleconferencing requires focus, refrain from doing other activities (even if they are work-related) during the conference.

- Take breaks - This is effective in long video conferences. Allow callers time to shut off or step away from the screen.

- Switch to "Audio Only" conferencing - Employees who are uncomfortable seeing themselves on conference calls may prefer this option. Relying on phone calls is a similar option.

- Work in a private room with few distractions - It is preferable to use a plain background with few distracting features. If a meeting is scheduled in advance, set up a private meeting space in the house and inform the other residents that this is a work conference.

• The Reason Zoom Calls Drain Your Energy
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• Here's Why You'e Feeling Zoom Fatigue
• Zoom Fatigue: How to Make Video Calls Less Tiring
• Zoom Fatigue: Don't Let Video Meetings Zap Your Energy