The fine line between healthy breaks and excessive zoning out

In today’s fast-paced, digitally saturated world, zoning out has become increasingly common.

By: Lifestyle Desk
New Delhi | December 1, 2024 05:00 PM IST

3 min read

When does daydreaming evolve into something more serious? (Source: Freepik)

Is excessive zoning out a bad sign?

Mehezabin Dordi, clinical psychologist at Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, notes that while zoning out occasionally is not serious, it can evolve into a problem when it starts to significantly impact daily life, productivity, and relationships. “If you do find yourself frequently disengaged during important tasks or conversations, it might indicate some underlying issues such as attention deficit disorders, anxiety, or depression.”

But zoning out isn’t all bad. In fact, it can serve as a mental break from the constant focus your brain endures. Your brain needs time to recharge, and when napping isn’t an option, zoning out can be helpful, Dordi explains. It could also boost creativity and improve problem-solving skills. Taking moments to zone out can aid in “processing your emotions” or allow for brief, reflective thinking.

While social media has popularised the term ‘dissociation,’ it is important to note that it is distinct from zoning out. (Source: Pexels)

When does it become serious?

“If someone finds themselves frequently disengaged during important tasks or conversations, it might indicate underlying issues such as attention deficit disorders, anxiety, or depression,” says Mehezabin.

While social media has popularised the term ‘dissociation,’ it is important to note that it is distinct from zoning out. Dissociation refers to a more severe form of mental disconnection, often linked to trauma or extreme stress. This deeper detachment can make individuals feel disconnected from their thoughts, feelings, or surroundings, to an extent that it impairs their functioning.

How to recognise if it’s a problem

If you find yourself zoning out more often than you’d like but aren’t sure whether it’s serious, consider incorporating these practices:

Practice Mindfulness
Engage in meditation or deep breathing exercises to heighten awareness and control over your thoughts, which can help reduce the tendency to zone out.
Structure Your Breaks
Taking regular, intentional breaks during work or study sessions can help combat mental fatigue and reduce the urge for the mind to wander.
Prioritise Tasks
Creating a clear to-do list with organised tasks and goals can help maintain focus and minimize the chances of zoning out.
Seek Professional Help
If zoning out is having a significant impact on your daily life, consulting with a mental health professional can be beneficial.

Striking the right balance between productive mind-wandering and problematic zoning out is essential for maintaining cognitive health and overall well-being.

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