When Staying Connected Wears You Out: How Video Call Fatigue Is Quietly Draining Your Relationships

Video call (or video conferencing) fatigue is the feeling of exhaustion after taking many video calls over a certain period. It can happen with any app, but it’s often referred to as “Zoom fatigue” or “Zoom exhaustion.” A survey of 10,322 people published in 2024 revealed that 13.8% of women and 5.5% of men felt “very” or “extremely” tired after Zoom calls.

Symptoms of videoconferencing fatigue include:

  • Eye strain
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Forgetfulness
  • Irritability
  • Mental fatigue
  • Muscle tension
  • Headaches
  • Sleeplessness

Some of these overlap with burnout symptoms. Another survey found that taking an exercise break was the most common tactic among employees trying to manage Zoom fatigue. Almost half (49%) did exercise between calls, 47% took a lunch break, and 43% turned off their cameras during Zoom meetings. 48% of respondents shared that seeing a coworker’s dog during a call reduced work-related stress, and the dog’s appearance made the meeting more pleasant for 51%.

Video call fatigue is also a risk in one’s personal life

It definitely contributes to the fact that almost 40% of long-distance relationships fail in the first three months. 52% of introverts state that they suffer from “webcam exhaustion.” Surprisingly, the camera also exhausted 40% of extroverts. Alternative forms of connecting, such as VR dating, could increase the chance of success in long-distance relationships.

Video call fatigue drains the excitement and the spark in a long-distance romance. What initially feels like a magical way to stay connected begins to feel like a chore, especially when both partners are juggling busy schedules, time zone differences, or the pressure to find meaning in each call. Over time, the emotional energy required to be fully present on screen can lead to frustration and disengagement. Compounding those are technical glitches, awkward silences, or repetitive conversations.

An obligation rather than a fun pastime

As fatigue sets in, couples may begin to associate their connection with obligation, which can kill momentum and intimacy. Instead of eagerly anticipating the next call, one or both partners might start to dread it, feeling emotionally tapped out before the conversation even begins. The slow burn of disinterest can make the distance feel even greater. Without fresh ways to connect or recharge emotionally, the relationship risks plateauing or fizzling out entirely.

Dealing with video call fatigue

Couples can do fun things together to combat fatigue. Besides trying VR dating, they can organize virtual movie nights, play online games, or cook together over video calls. Choose a movie you both like or want to see and watch it together while texting or on a call. You can talk about the plot and characters and share your reactions as if you were sitting next to each other. A complex video game or even a simple puzzle game can be an exciting way to engage in friendly competition.

Listening to understand vs. to respond

There’s one person who speaks more and one who listens more in every relationship. Studies show many people overestimate their listening skills. The goal of “deep listening” is to understand a person or circumstance, acquire information, and experience satisfaction. Active listeners make the conscious decision to really hear what someone is saying. They are fully focused on words and messages without getting distracted.

According to research, the two types of listening are listening to understand and to respond. Those who do more than merely wait for their turn to speak are more satisfied in their interpersonal relationships.

Improving your listening skills is an advantage regardless of whether you speak on calls or in person. Try to listen for meaning and put yourself inside the speaker’s mind. Avoid hasty judgments, try to be empathetic, and pay attention to body language.

Recap

  • 52% of introverts and 40% of extroverts suffer from webcam exhaustion
  • Calls feel like a chore, especially with busy schedules or time zone differences
  • Being fully present emotionally every time is frustrating
  • Organize virtual movie nights, play online games, or cook together
  • Listen actively to understand what your partner is really saying.