But while we may dream of deleting our email apps and setting a permanent OOO, the reality is that we do have to remain somewhat contactable while at work. So how can we better protect ourselves from ping fatigue and set some much-needed digital boundaries without making enemies in the office?

“There’s really only one solution: protect your time and energy,” insists McLean. “Turn off non-essential alerts, carve out some deep-focus time, and reclaim control over your own productivity. Because if you’re constantly reacting, you’ll always be playing catch-up, and compromising your career as a result.”

At the same time, it’s up to your company to set a better standard and alleviate the pressure employees face to instantly respond to messages. “Communication channels could be much simpler and more streamlined, screen breaks should be encouraged, burnout regularly monitored and employees must be reassured that they’re judged based on outcomes, not whether they’re constantly reacting,” adds McLean.

Is your job giving you ‘ping fatigue’? Here’s what you can do about it