Screen Fatigue: It’s A Real Thing

Since the onset of stay-at-home orders and the advent of working from home, adults and children alike are on screens a lot more. And even though things may be opening up more in the weeks to come, screen usage will still be very much a part of the new normal.

Recent observations are showing that people are experiencing significant exhaustion and fatigue from being on their screens for meetings, for school lessons, for family gatherings, and for therapy.

Are you one of these? Tired after a meeting, class, or therapy session? Minor memory issues? Needing to rest more? You’re not alone.

But there are things you can do. If you’re working from home, see if it’s possible to take a break between virtual meetings. If you’re in a meeting and tired, stretch your legs under your desk or table and wiggle your feet for a minute, take in slow, deep breaths and feel your muscles relax. You can teach these techniques to your children.

If you are participating in virtual video therapy, talk with your therapist. They will have a variety of wonderful ideas for relaxing before, during and after a session.

In between video sessions, take a break from your screen, get out for a walk if weather permits, do a little stretching, play a game. This can help all of use get through this challenging time.

-Dr. Beth A. Davis, Psy.D.

Additional References:
USA Today Article on Zoom Fatigue