Does Multitasking Lead to Mental Fatigue?

Around 2010, multitasking enjoyed great prestige. People boasted about handling multiple tasks simultaneously, facilitated by technological advances that allowed managing several computers with numerous open windows at once. Doing less was considered something for the indecisive, lazy, or those nearing retirement.

However, within five years, the first scientific studies began to question the effectiveness of multitasking. It soon became evident that performing multiple tasks at once decreased attention, worsened work quality, and increased errors.

It was also shown that sudden and repetitive shifts in focus led to fatigue and mental fatigue, and furthermore, hindered work as much time was lost trying to regain concentration.

Various studies evidenced that we were not doing multiple things simultaneously but rather switching from one task to another. An article by the Society of Emotional Development (SED) demonstrated that the brain shifts tasks, incurring a cost they estimated as a loss of up to 15% in cognitive efficiency. In other words, constantly interrupting your mind exhausts you and does not make you more efficient; quite the opposite.

According to the Microsoft WorkLab 2023 Work Trend Index, 64% of people globally do not have enough time and energy to do their work due to the digital overload of emails, messages, or virtual meetings. Other studies indicate that when people work on different tasks simultaneously, their productivity can decrease by up to 40%, as they are more prone to errors due to lack of attention to detail, and their retention ability diminishes considerably.

Another study conducted at Stanford University found that people who considered themselves “very good multitaskers” were actually worse at concentrating, organizing information, and switching from one task to another compared to those who preferred focusing on executing one task at a time.

“There is ample scientific evidence showing that multitasking is not as efficient as initially thought. Studies have shown that the human brain is not well-equipped to handle multiple tasks simultaneously,” confirms Cinthya Molina, a psychologist at SHA.

Molina cites research by Dr. David Meyer, a psychologist at the University of Michigan, indicating that trying to perform multiple tasks simultaneously can lead to increased time needed to complete each task and an increase in errors made. This is because the brain has to switch from one set of cognitive rules to another, which consumes time and mental energy, affecting accuracy and efficiency.

The SHA expert believes multitasking can be convenient when tasks are automatic or routine and do not require much cognitive attention, such as walking and talking on the phone. “In these cases, the brain can handle both tasks without significant effort. However, it becomes counterproductive when dealing with tasks that require concentration and critical thinking. In these situations, attempting to perform multiple tasks simultaneously can lead to a decrease in work quality, errors, and an increase in the time needed to complete tasks,” she explains.

By 2024, multitasking is no longer a prestigious practice, as there is extensive scientific evidence linking it to mental fatigue and an increase in errors. Cinthya Molina confirms this with several scientific studies: “Studies from Stanford University have found that people who frequently multitask have more difficulty filtering irrelevant information and may experience greater cognitive fatigue. Additionally, research shows that multitasking can increase levels of stress and anxiety, further contributing to mental fatigue.”

A fatigued brain is not an efficient brain as its performance is not optimal. “It operates at a reduced level of efficiency and effectiveness,” confirms the SHA expert, who details some symptoms of mental fatigue:

• Difficulty concentrating
• Memory problems
• Decreased decision-making ability
• Irritability and mood swings
• Constant fatigue
• Feeling overwhelmed
• Lower performance in cognitive tasks
• Headaches
• Digestive problems
• Sleep disorders

At SHA, a comprehensive approach is offered to help multitaskers change their work habits and improve their performance. Strategies include:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help people identify and change negative thought patterns and unhealthy habits related to multitasking.

 Mindfulness and meditation techniques to improve attention and reduce stress.

 Time and stress management training to teach prioritizing tasks and avoiding work overload.

 Comprehensive wellness programs focused on physical exercise, proper nutrition, and relaxation techniques to improve physical and mental health.

“Additionally, personalized counseling is offered in individual sessions with mental health professionals to address specific needs and develop effective strategies to help improve performance and well-being,” the expert details.