The Busy Brain Trap: Expert Explains Why Multitasking Makes Us More Stressed, Not Efficient

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Multitasking is highly prized in the modern, fast-paced world. Sending replies to emails during meetings, browsing through messages while watching videos, or multitasking at workplaces is considered a sign of being productive. However, most people do not know that multitasking is silently working our brains to death and causing us more stress than efficiency.

We spoke to Archana Singhal, Counsellor and Family Therapist and Founder of Mindwell Counsel, who explained the impact of multitasking on your brain.

Why the Brain Struggles With Multitasking

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The human brain is not created to work on several tasks simultaneously. What we refer to as multitasking is, in reality, a fast task-switching. "Whenever the brain leaves one activity for another, it consumes additional mental energy to re-focus. This repetitive cycling causes cognitive overload, and at the end of the day, the brain is exhausted and scattered," explained Singhal.

How Multitasking Raises Stress Levels

Among the most significant outcomes of multitasking is increased stress. Switching constantly from one task to another keeps the brain in a state of continuous alertness; leading to the release of the stress hormone cortisol. "Over time, elevated stress levels can contribute to anxiety, irritability, headaches, and burnout. Instead of feeling accomplished at the end of the day, many people return home mentally exhausted despite being busy all day," added Singhal.

The Illusion of Productivity

Multitasking also destroys efficiency and quality of work. When divided attention occurs, errors become more prevalent, the tasks become slower to accomplish, and creativity becomes impaired. Experimental Economics published research showing that people who multitask are usually outperformed by those who do one thing at a time. Productivity may turn into just an illusion, keeping one "busy" while the actual results remain far less effective.

The Emotional Cost of Doing Too Much at Once

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"Multitasking can create a constant sense of pressure, making it an emotional burden. When someone tries to do everything at the same time, they often end up feeling as though there is never enough time," said Singhal. This can lead to frustration, self-reproach, and a persistent sense of never doing enough despite long hours of work. Over time, this psychological pattern may reduce self-esteem and overall contentment.

Memory, Attention, and Missed Details

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"Multitasking also affects memory and attention. When attention is divided, the brain struggles to store information effectively. This is one reason individuals tend to forget tasks, miss deadlines, or need frequent reminders about schedules," warned Singhal. And with time, the brain gets used to having constant stimulation rather than focusing on anything for a long time.

Breaking the Busy-Brain Cycle

Singhal advised, "The first conscious step can help break the busy-brain trap. Single-tasking, which is focusing on one task at a time, allows the brain to function more effectively and remain calmer. Mental stress can be significantly reduced through simple habits, such as prioritising work, allocating focused time blocks, and eliminating unnecessary notifications."

Breaking tasks into smaller parts with short rest periods helps the brain recover, offering greater clarity and emotional balance. Even small changes in daily habits, such as eating meals without electronics or taking walks without checking the phone, can help retrain the brain to stay present.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.