Fatigue from video calls is common

Video conferences, while convenient, can lead to significant physical and mental fatigue due to several factors. According to Laurent Kerangueven, an ergonomist and expert from the INRS, prolonged time spent in front of a screen, maintaining the same posture, attention solicitation, and cognitive load contribute to this fatigue.

Video calls demand more mental effort

Video conferences require participants to follow exchanges, identify important information, interpret non-verbal cues, and know when to intervene, which can be more demanding than in-person meetings. Non-verbal communication cues such as gestures, facial expressions, and eye contact are less easily perceived at a distance, and technical difficulties like poor connection, sound issues, and frozen images can add stress.

Eye strain is a frequent issue

Eye fatigue is a common issue, as prolonged screen time can lead to dry eyes, irritation, blurred vision, and headaches. Poor lighting, screen reflections, and air quality can exacerbate these symptoms. To mitigate eye strain, it is recommended to look away from the screen regularly and take real visual breaks between meetings, avoiding immediate use of smartphones.

Posture problems can cause pain

Neck and back pain can result from prolonged static postures during video conferences, especially when using a laptop. This can lead to musculoskeletal disorders affecting the neck, back, shoulders, and upper limbs. The risk depends on factors such as exposure duration, workstation arrangement, and the possibility of changing posture. Maintaining a perfect posture is not necessary; instead, varying postures regularly and moving periodically is advised.

Strategies to reduce fatigue

To reduce fatigue during video conferences, it is essential to space out meetings, limit unnecessary ones, avoid multitasking, move regularly, use breaks to leave screens, adjust workstations, and familiarize oneself with video conferencing tools. Alternating between in-person meetings, phone calls, and written exchanges can also help.

When to seek professional help

Persistent symptoms such as pain, frequent headaches, recurring visual discomfort, or significant fatigue that does not subside with rest should be evaluated by a health professional. In a professional context, occupational health and prevention services can help assess symptoms and identify necessary adjustments. The key to reducing fatigue from video conferences lies in balancing tasks, spacing meetings, varying activities, moving regularly, and improving workstation arrangements.