As remote and hybrid work reshape the workplace, new research is uncovering the surprising impact of video calls on employee mental health. While platforms like Zoom and Teams keep us connected, they can also lead to significant mental fatigue, especially when employees are constantly exposed to their reflections.
A recent study from the University of Galway reveals that viewing oneself on screen during video calls contributes to mental fatigue and may even lead to a phenomenon known as "Zoom fatigue." As organisations seek to create healthier remote work environments, understanding the impact of video calls on mental health is crucial. Let’s explore how constant self-view affects mental health and strategies to reduce video call fatigue.
Why Video Call Fatigue Happens and How It Impacts Mental Health
Viewing oneself on screen during video calls can trigger a heightened level of self-awareness, creating a phenomenon known as self-objectification. Self-objectification happens when someone becomes overly focused on their appearance, evaluating themselves rather than engaging fully with the conversation. This habit doesn’t just distract from the meeting—it also causes real mental fatigue.
The University of Galway study used EEG monitoring to confirm that seeing one's own image on screen increases mental strain. When the brain splits its resources between monitoring appearance and participating in the meeting, it leads to higher levels of fatigue. This is why "video call fatigue" has become a significant issue, particularly in remote work environments where virtual meetings are frequent.
For employers, understanding that video call fatigue impacts everyone equally can encourage the development of policies that support all employees. Given the high demand for hybrid and remote work roles, supporting mental health during video calls is key to creating a positive workplace and retaining top talent.
Strategies for Reducing Video Call Fatigue for Employees and Employers
Managing video call fatigue in the workplace doesn’t require major changes. With a few simple adjustments, employees and employers can reduce the mental toll of virtual meetings and support better mental health in remote work settings.
For Employees:
- Use the "Hide Self-View" Feature: Most video conferencing platforms offer an option to turn off your reflection while still being visible to others. This can reduce self-monitoring and improve focus on the conversation. Easy steps to do this here
- Take Breaks Between Calls: Avoid back-to-back meetings whenever possible to prevent cumulative mental fatigue. Try something else to relax like meditation or walking outside in the fresh air. For days when you have back-to-back video calls, request if any calls can be done with the camera switched off.
- Challenge Distorted Perceptions: Camera lenses can distort appearance, so recognize that what you see on screen isn’t an accurate reflection of how others see you.
More tips on how to reduce video call fatigue here
For Employers:
- Encourage "Camera-Optional" Meetings: Allow employees to turn off their cameras during certain meetings to reduce self-objectification and video call fatigue.
- Promote Regular Breaks: Encourage breaks between video calls to allow employees to recharge and reduce mental strain.
- Create a Supportive Culture: Acknowledge the reality of video call fatigue and its impact on mental health. This shows employees that their well-being is a priority and can foster a more supportive remote work environment.
Video Call Fatigue in Remote Work: Tips for Job Seekers and Employers
For job seekers, understanding video call fatigue can also help during virtual interviews. With many interviews now conducted online, self-view fatigue can add stress to an already high-stakes situation. By using self-view management features and focusing on the conversation, job seekers can reduce anxiety about appearance.
Employers can support candidates by offering alternative formats or optional self-view features in virtual interviews. This awareness of video call fatigue shows potential employees that the company values mental health and well-being, making it an attractive workplace.
Final Thoughts: Reducing Video Call Fatigue to Support Employee Wellbeing
Video calls are an essential part of the modern workplace, but the effects of constant self-view can lead to real mental health challenges. Organisations that promote policies allowing employees to reduce self-view and take breaks demonstrate a commitment to employee wellbeing. Simple steps, like enabling camera-optional meetings and creating awareness about video call fatigue, can boost productivity, improve engagement, and help employees feel more comfortable on screen.
At Eligo we understand the importance of employee wellbeing and mental health in the workplace. If you're looking for guidance on creating a supportive remote work environment or need assistance navigating the demands of hybrid work, we’re here to help.
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