Screen Fatigue

Screen Fatigue

Sitting at a desk from nine to five can cause tiredness, eye strain and burnout, however, pre-COVID, it was more of a norm to go have the opportunity to get up from your desk and meet with co-workers or have a lunch meeting to remove yourself from the dreaded screen. Luckily, easing COVID restrictions have helped increase work socialization but many companies have found the new normal of working-from-home over Zoom meetings to be more efficient causing many of us to remain in front of the computer screen for long hours. These extended periods of inactivity may be causing more problems than you realize, and it’s time to make some changes.

That tiredness you feel in your eyes from looking at a screen all day can initiate headaches, dryness and blurred vision. People often blink less while working from a computer, so don’t let something as simple as frequent blinking get away from you. Also, don’t feel like you’re forced to be uncomfortable just because you’re at work…even if work has been moved to home. Adjust the ambient lighting around you to be less harsh. When all the florescent lights and sunlight are shining down on you, you have to strain harder to read what is on your screen. Turn that environmental brightness down and correct your computer intensity to match it.

Your body is probably asking for help as well. If your computer isn’t at an ideal height, you could be putting unwanted exhaustion on your back and neck without even realizing it. Sitting at a desk all day can be brutal, so it’s crucial that you’re positioning yourself at an ideal angle. Try not to hunch over the keyboard with your eyes fixed on the screen. Focus on keeping your body at an angle of around 120 to 135 degrees, and place your computer is at an appropriate eye level. Make sure your feet are flat on the floor and let those shoulders relax! Not only can these tips help to avoid strained muscles and fatigue, but your mood and energy can also change drastically.

Last but not least, step away from the screen! It’s important to take breaks and move your body. Get up, grab a snack, use the bathroom, or just stretch your legs. Your eyes and body need a break just as much as you do, and the benefits are worth it!

Overall, create an environment that is comfortable for you. After the day’s work is complete, don’t jump right back on another screen. It is not bad to watch a little television or scroll through social posts before bed, but don’t let it consume you! Screens make up such a large part of our lives, and it has become increasingly evident over this past year. While sometimes the computer time is unavoidable, keep these tips in mind and continue to step away from the screen from time to time.