I Have Zoom Fatigue and a Rapport Problem

Zoom counselling exposes my wrinkles and resting angry face

Has anyone else considered making tick marks on the wall to count the days we’ve been social distancing? I started working from home 163 days ago. I had no idea it would last this long. And there’s no end in sight.

I am a mental health counsellor, so I’m very conscious of its effect on mental health. I am fortunate that my employer decided to move all of our sessions to Telehealth. I was a student when this started but had already secured a position at my internship site. I graduated and became an employee during the pandemic.

I previously worked at home and loved it. I could roll out of bed, change into my day-pyjamas*, and get to work. This job is different. From the beginning, it’s been exhausting. At first, I couldn’t figure out why. I have an hour extra in my day since I’m not commuting. I don’t have to pack a lunch, and I can wear sweat bottoms with a pretty blouse! Shoes are so 2019! Who even wears them? Still, it’s exhausting!

Yesterday I discovered part of the reason this is so exhausting. A client asked me if I was boring her! I was deep in thought, listening to her when she asked. I knew I hadn’t yawned! I assured her that I was paying attention and asked her why she thought I was bored. She said I had rolled my eyes. I couldn’t figure it out until the next day when I met with a group of colleagues.

My supervisor pointed out that many people look up when they are thinking about something. I thought about this and immediately looked up. A coworker mentioned that she has a “resting angry face,” you may also know this as “resting bitch face**” She pointed out that we had similar features, including downward frown lines around the mouth. I have this same expression! Here is a sample of some of my facial expressions. I agree that I look angry, bored, or disinterested unless I smile. (I added the plaid for my husband, who says good counselors should always have plaid!)

I immediately started planning how I would control my expressions. I mean, I can’t smile…

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