Digital Detox: A Strategic Approach to Mitigating Cybersecurity Fatigue

Abstract

The Cybersecurity fatigue has emerged as a critical human-centric challenge in contemporary digital environments, undermining both employee well-being and organizational security performance. As cybersecurity systems become increasingly complex and demanding, individuals are required to sustain continuous vigilance, respond to frequent alerts, and comply with evolving security protocols. These conditions often exceed human cognitive limits, leading to emotional exhaustion, reduced attention, and insecure behaviors. Digital detox—defined as intentional and structured disengagement from digital demands—has gained scholarly attention as a mechanism for restoring cognitive capacity and psychological resilience. This paper examines digital detox as a strategic intervention to mitigate cybersecurity fatigue. Drawing on Burnout Theory, Cognitive Load Theory, and human-centered cybersecurity research, the study synthesizes empirical evidence linking digital detox practices to improved mental health, productivity, and security compliance. The paper argues that digital detox should be reconceptualized not as a lifestyle trend, but as an essential component of sustainable cybersecurity strategy.