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Frontal Fatigue: The Impact of Modern Life and Technology on Mental Illness
If technology is making modern life easier, why are we suffering from more stress and mental illness?
In this trailblazing book, Dr. Mark Rego, who has practiced psychiatry in the community and taught at Yale for thirty years, explores why mental illness and stress are skyrocketing alongside technology that was ostensibly created to improve our world. Using decades of experience and pioneering scientific research, Dr. Rego presents his innovative hypothesis of Frontal Fatigue, the background condition from which many of us now suffer. Frontal Fatigue exists when the unique pressures of modern life overwhelm the prefrontal cortex, the part of our brains that can make us susceptible to mental illness.
Frontal Fatigue examines why mental illness is increasing in modern times, how the demands of our technology-centric lives place countless people at risk for mental illness and lacking in basic psychological well-being, and solutions for finding stability and peace within the noise of modern life. This astute perspective in the battle for our collective and individual peace of mind illustrates why mental illness is on the rise in these technologically advanced times and how we can act to adjust our lives in response.
In this trailblazing book, Dr. Mark Rego, who has practiced psychiatry in the community and taught at Yale for thirty years, explores why mental illness and stress are skyrocketing alongside technology that was ostensibly created to improve our world. Using decades of experience and pioneering scientific research, Dr. Rego presents his innovative hypothesis of Frontal Fatigue, the background condition from which many of us now suffer. Frontal Fatigue exists when the unique pressures of modern life overwhelm the prefrontal cortex, the part of our brains that can make us susceptible to mental illness.
Frontal Fatigue examines why mental illness is increasing in modern times, how the demands of our technology-centric lives place countless people at risk for mental illness and lacking in basic psychological well-being, and solutions for finding stability and peace within the noise of modern life. This astute perspective in the battle for our collective and individual peace of mind illustrates why mental illness is on the rise in these technologically advanced times and how we can act to adjust our lives in response.
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Published May 24, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
October 19, 2021
I found this book to be very accessible and easy to read. Due to the effects of technology and change in our modern life, I think all readers can find value in this book.
May 16, 2022
Frontal Fatigue breaks down several types of mental illness in easy to digest terms as well as the what, when, how, why to build support for authors point. The point being that mental illness is on the rise in modern times while considering “well we have greater awareness” argument but stating why it is not JUST awareness but a deeper issue.
Modern lifestyles (aka: technology-driven lives: computers, phones, tv, etc.) are too tech-heavy creating a stressful environment that our prefrontal cortex cannot handle. The author claims and lends supporting facts as to the degradation of the prefrontal cortex and how this may be leading to a larger impact than we ever anticipated.
“With chronic stress, the PFC loses its ability to send these signals and the stress response continues unabated, even if the original stressful situation is gone.”
And since we are now learning that the PFC is the powerhouse of computation that keeps a handle our mental functions, it is not ideal that when stressed (and sometimes chronically so) this impairs the ability of our PFC to tamp down our anxiety / other unpleasant responses. Sadly, the PFC is not a stress response organ but it is the gatekeeper to almost all mental illnesses - adhd, schizophrenia, depression, etc.
I enjoyed learning more about mental health awareness and the authors input to the rising issue, I would assume most will acknowledge is an issue.. right? Please? There were a few qualms I had about some of the supporting facts like capitalism not being one of the main problems (American lifestyle is not sustainable and each place that piggybacks off of us becomes unhealthy) because he states at one point that after WW2 there was a greater amount of time for leisurely activities. The hungry monster named capitalism fails to provide the modern American any sort of leisure or hands-on activities for fun with some sort of guilt. Yes, technology does not help as now during your free time the boss will expect an answer at 11 pm on a Saturday night for something that could wait until Monday. But I would state that a combination of the American capitalist life and technology are to blame. Capitalism is a religion now more than ever because to hell with you if you do not follow the book you’re a lazy piece of garbage if you enjoy spending time with your family on the weekends and after 5pm on a weekday.. you’re trash if you don’t want to put in overtime.. etc.
I can’t find my highlight of it just now, but I think the author mentioned there was less loss in ancient times?? Which stuck out at me, but I could have been mistaken… if not, that’s not true. Reviewing census records and church census records you can see how many children a parent would lose before 1 survived.. many times the family would have 10 - 15 children and only have 2 survive and even then they may only survive until they’re 15 or 18 years old before a workplace accident took their lives. Loss was a large part of peoples lives and the way other cultures handle loss and death is beautiful. I would like to argue that the American lifestyle of put it in an orderly box and forget your feelings, focus on your money making + technology-dopamine-hits (Twitter, TikTok, Facebook, etc) are really what drives mental illness numbers up.
America does not support learning in multifaceted ways (a fish can’t ride a bicycle, an elephant can’t climb a tree imagery) we force introverted people to work/live in counterproductive ways, and continue to support debunked factors that do more harm than good.
Anyway, overall, 3.5 stars and I really enjoyed receiving a Goodreads giveaway copy of this book to further my knowledge and see from someone else’s point of view.
Modern lifestyles (aka: technology-driven lives: computers, phones, tv, etc.) are too tech-heavy creating a stressful environment that our prefrontal cortex cannot handle. The author claims and lends supporting facts as to the degradation of the prefrontal cortex and how this may be leading to a larger impact than we ever anticipated.
“With chronic stress, the PFC loses its ability to send these signals and the stress response continues unabated, even if the original stressful situation is gone.”
And since we are now learning that the PFC is the powerhouse of computation that keeps a handle our mental functions, it is not ideal that when stressed (and sometimes chronically so) this impairs the ability of our PFC to tamp down our anxiety / other unpleasant responses. Sadly, the PFC is not a stress response organ but it is the gatekeeper to almost all mental illnesses - adhd, schizophrenia, depression, etc.
I enjoyed learning more about mental health awareness and the authors input to the rising issue, I would assume most will acknowledge is an issue.. right? Please? There were a few qualms I had about some of the supporting facts like capitalism not being one of the main problems (American lifestyle is not sustainable and each place that piggybacks off of us becomes unhealthy) because he states at one point that after WW2 there was a greater amount of time for leisurely activities. The hungry monster named capitalism fails to provide the modern American any sort of leisure or hands-on activities for fun with some sort of guilt. Yes, technology does not help as now during your free time the boss will expect an answer at 11 pm on a Saturday night for something that could wait until Monday. But I would state that a combination of the American capitalist life and technology are to blame. Capitalism is a religion now more than ever because to hell with you if you do not follow the book you’re a lazy piece of garbage if you enjoy spending time with your family on the weekends and after 5pm on a weekday.. you’re trash if you don’t want to put in overtime.. etc.
I can’t find my highlight of it just now, but I think the author mentioned there was less loss in ancient times?? Which stuck out at me, but I could have been mistaken… if not, that’s not true. Reviewing census records and church census records you can see how many children a parent would lose before 1 survived.. many times the family would have 10 - 15 children and only have 2 survive and even then they may only survive until they’re 15 or 18 years old before a workplace accident took their lives. Loss was a large part of peoples lives and the way other cultures handle loss and death is beautiful. I would like to argue that the American lifestyle of put it in an orderly box and forget your feelings, focus on your money making + technology-dopamine-hits (Twitter, TikTok, Facebook, etc) are really what drives mental illness numbers up.
America does not support learning in multifaceted ways (a fish can’t ride a bicycle, an elephant can’t climb a tree imagery) we force introverted people to work/live in counterproductive ways, and continue to support debunked factors that do more harm than good.
Anyway, overall, 3.5 stars and I really enjoyed receiving a Goodreads giveaway copy of this book to further my knowledge and see from someone else’s point of view.
February 22, 2022
Rego begins the book by exploring different types of mental illness, moves on to how modern life has affected us and our mental health, and then, as the name suggests, he ends with the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and how it relates to various mental states and illnesses.
I’m not sure what I was expecting from this book - something more relatable or dumbed down maybe. It’s not extremely academic; he explains things in plain language, but the more it goes on, the drier it gets, and it’s just hard to pay attention. Perhaps I’m having my own PFC problems right now? (Difficulty with reading concentration is one clue he provides.)
The proposed solution is self-awareness and “turning inward,” and he suggests frontal fatigue will only continue and worsen. Society will not change so we can only care for our minds in the way that we have to take extra care to keep our bodies healthy. Chapter 27 finally provides some practical tips for maintaining mental health.
This book is mostly about the why. If you’re curious about what is causing increasing mental health decline, reach for this. If you’d like to focus more on the how and things you can do to improve mental health, I’d suggest a different book.
I received this book as part of a Goodreads giveaway, and this is my honest review.
I’m not sure what I was expecting from this book - something more relatable or dumbed down maybe. It’s not extremely academic; he explains things in plain language, but the more it goes on, the drier it gets, and it’s just hard to pay attention. Perhaps I’m having my own PFC problems right now? (Difficulty with reading concentration is one clue he provides.)
The proposed solution is self-awareness and “turning inward,” and he suggests frontal fatigue will only continue and worsen. Society will not change so we can only care for our minds in the way that we have to take extra care to keep our bodies healthy. Chapter 27 finally provides some practical tips for maintaining mental health.
This book is mostly about the why. If you’re curious about what is causing increasing mental health decline, reach for this. If you’d like to focus more on the how and things you can do to improve mental health, I’d suggest a different book.
I received this book as part of a Goodreads giveaway, and this is my honest review.
May 26, 2022
This book reads like a conspiracy article that didn't (and wouldn't) make it into a scientific journal. While I will say that research has shown some merit to how technology affects our prefrontal cortex, particularly as it relates to executive functioning and the reward center of our brain, it is quite a stretch to say that the vast majority of mental illnesses (even severe ones that we see genetically linked- i.e. bipolar disorder and schizophrenia) are connected to technology. It reminded me of a parent trying to reduce screen time by showing a picture of the brain (kind of like the "this is your brain on drugs" commercials with the eggs).
One GIGANTIC flaw in this way of thinking is the way it minimizes awareness and stigma reduction combined with continued psychopathologizing in their impact on increased diagnosing.
It isn't that mental illness is occurring more frequently- it is that we are more open to calling it out and not being ashamed of it- not hiding people in attics or state hospitals because they act out of line. We are understanding more about generational trauma, genetics, and how these things come to be- and how they were there before smartphones but no one wanted to say it or we didn't know enough to identify it.
Overall, this is a "get off my lawn" old-school thinking read and was very disappointing.
One GIGANTIC flaw in this way of thinking is the way it minimizes awareness and stigma reduction combined with continued psychopathologizing in their impact on increased diagnosing.
It isn't that mental illness is occurring more frequently- it is that we are more open to calling it out and not being ashamed of it- not hiding people in attics or state hospitals because they act out of line. We are understanding more about generational trauma, genetics, and how these things come to be- and how they were there before smartphones but no one wanted to say it or we didn't know enough to identify it.
Overall, this is a "get off my lawn" old-school thinking read and was very disappointing.
Read
November 15, 2021Fans of Alvin Tofflers Future Shock, will find this book informative. I thought the book was interesting in that it tied in so many mental illnesses to technology. That's not too shocking, loads of data has shown damage done by tv, movies, and now tech. I think this book should be a must read by anyone interested in why they feel like hamsters on a hamster wheel. There is no way technology ends well; every upgrade, loses more people as they age. I am lucky to be retired, I am dumping as much tech as I can. I want my snail mail. I will not be dragged back into the madness I finally left! Everything is better in the real world- there are parks to explore, places to actually visit, and real people to meet! At the same time, it lowers blood pressure, increases ones disposition, and alleviates stress. etc... Now, if people c
an only find a bit of patience to read a book, not a synopsis of it, they may learn what they need to know to help themselves and their families. Common sense advise on raising kids with ADHD, too.
It's a little dry and academic in some areas toward the middle, but muddle through, do the research, very informative.
I reeceived a Kindle arc from Netgalley in exchange for a fair review.
an only find a bit of patience to read a book, not a synopsis of it, they may learn what they need to know to help themselves and their families. Common sense advise on raising kids with ADHD, too.
It's a little dry and academic in some areas toward the middle, but muddle through, do the research, very informative.
I reeceived a Kindle arc from Netgalley in exchange for a fair review.
January 14, 2022
An interesting review of mental illness, modernity and medicine. This book explores the complex relationship between modern life and the mental health of people. What does modernity and technology do to us and do we realise the impact it is having on us personally as well as societies as a whole.
We are not only now suffering physical fatigue but a mental one as well- frontal fatigue. The prefrontal cortex is under immense daily pressure and goes way beyond its capacity and thus fatigues - constantly bombardment by external stressors leads to pressurised prefrontal cortex and leads to fatigue- burnout and eventually mental illness.
We need to re-engage with "Quietism " and find internal and external peace- which reduces stress and therefore allows the prefrontal cortex to work at its optimum. We not only need to look after ourselves physically but mentally as well.
We are not only now suffering physical fatigue but a mental one as well- frontal fatigue. The prefrontal cortex is under immense daily pressure and goes way beyond its capacity and thus fatigues - constantly bombardment by external stressors leads to pressurised prefrontal cortex and leads to fatigue- burnout and eventually mental illness.
We need to re-engage with "Quietism " and find internal and external peace- which reduces stress and therefore allows the prefrontal cortex to work at its optimum. We not only need to look after ourselves physically but mentally as well.
February 23, 2022
For full disclosure, I received a Kindle version of this book for free in a Goodreads giveaway.
I can’t say I really enjoyed this book. As another reader mentioned, the first chapters offer general descriptions of mental disorders that really drag the book down, particularly if you have previous knowledge of the subject. I feel the author cherry picked which disorders he included in the book, and I didn’t think there was enough follow through in later chapters. The book lacked detailed examples of how each disorder was linked to PFC fatigue. In general, I felt his argument was not that convincing, and other confounding variables could be responsible for the rise in cases of several disorders presented in the book.
I also thought a whole chapter about the author’s daily routine was a bit much considering it’s unclear how much his experience mirrors the public’s at large.
I can’t say I really enjoyed this book. As another reader mentioned, the first chapters offer general descriptions of mental disorders that really drag the book down, particularly if you have previous knowledge of the subject. I feel the author cherry picked which disorders he included in the book, and I didn’t think there was enough follow through in later chapters. The book lacked detailed examples of how each disorder was linked to PFC fatigue. In general, I felt his argument was not that convincing, and other confounding variables could be responsible for the rise in cases of several disorders presented in the book.
I also thought a whole chapter about the author’s daily routine was a bit much considering it’s unclear how much his experience mirrors the public’s at large.
October 15, 2021
Thank you to NetGalley and Greenleaf Book Group for the chance to read an early copy of this book.
This book was an easy read but very intriguing. It surveys a number of different mental illnesses and reviews how they have changed in the 21st century, reviews theories of how modern life affects humans, introduces the prefrontal cortex (PFC), discusses why modern life is particularly overwhelming to PFC functions, and finally offers suggestions to alleviate the demands placed on the PFC. The pacing is a little odd--the sections are drastically different lengths, and starting out with a survey of 12 different illnesses really slows things down--but overall I really liked this book and found it provided great food for thought.
This book was an easy read but very intriguing. It surveys a number of different mental illnesses and reviews how they have changed in the 21st century, reviews theories of how modern life affects humans, introduces the prefrontal cortex (PFC), discusses why modern life is particularly overwhelming to PFC functions, and finally offers suggestions to alleviate the demands placed on the PFC. The pacing is a little odd--the sections are drastically different lengths, and starting out with a survey of 12 different illnesses really slows things down--but overall I really liked this book and found it provided great food for thought.
April 11, 2024
I received a copy of this book through Goodreads First Reads program. The author does a pretty good job at summing up a variety of psych research to support his hypothesis that our current “modern” world which, by its nature, taxes our prefrontal cortex is an underlying cause of a rise in mental illness occurrence and diagnosis. It does paint a rather dismal picture of what technology and the recent isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic have done in fraying our social fabric. I’d be curious to see how this theory holds up years from now with additional research and advancements. Approachable read for the average person, and ample citations in the bibliography for any reader interesting in delving into the topic more.
October 22, 2021
Frontal Fatigue is a highly readable book about a subject that effects all of the developed world. Neurological and psychiatric concepts are often difficult to communicate, but Dr. Rego writes in a conversational and direct style that will be accessible to most readers. The increase in certain mental disorders is a subject of concern to those working in schools, businesses, and the courts. By integrating current research with decades of experience in psychiatric practice the author has provided an understanding of the problems along with several possible solutions. I am certain I will use some of his insights in my own work in the area of Substance Use Disorder. Charles M. Jones Ph.D.
December 31, 2021
I received this book through a Goodreads Giveaway in exchange for an honest review.
This is an interesting book, but very dense.
The reading level the book is written at isn't overwhelming by its self, but the book its self has a lot of information and breaks down different symptoms and treatment for mental illness. The book also explores how technology and our modern world have impacted these illnesses. The book talks about how diagnosis of many of these mental illnesses have changed over time and how technology acerbates many of these symptoms. The book doesn't go into the depth that I expected and felt like a lot to sort through.
Overall an ok read.
This is an interesting book, but very dense.
The reading level the book is written at isn't overwhelming by its self, but the book its self has a lot of information and breaks down different symptoms and treatment for mental illness. The book also explores how technology and our modern world have impacted these illnesses. The book talks about how diagnosis of many of these mental illnesses have changed over time and how technology acerbates many of these symptoms. The book doesn't go into the depth that I expected and felt like a lot to sort through.
Overall an ok read.
February 20, 2023
I'm not super-sure what I was expecting, but this wasn't it. I experienced this via audiobook, and it felt way more like being at a heavy health science lecture than I anticipated. I think the voice had a little to do with it. Regardless, it took 90% of the book to get to the actual subject. The first 90% was nothing but explaining and laying the groundwork for the last 10%. By that time I was determined to get through it, but I'm not sure I'm any better off for it.
October 26, 2021
As a mental health professional, I found Dr. Rego's explanation of various mental illnesses clear and engaging for any reader who would like a better understanding of this complex and timely subject. What was new and fascinating for me was his formulation about how the technological advances in our society have specifically stressed our brains and minds while, at the same time, relieving us of many of the burdens faced by previous generations. Highly recommended!
Wendy Stewart, Ph.D.
Wendy Stewart, Ph.D.
December 9, 2021
I won this book in a GoodReads giveaway and due to the holidays, it took me a little while to get around to reading it. However, once I started it I had trouble putting it down. It's a quick read that is packed with information on the brain, mental health, and the impacts of modern life on the brain. I found it to be very interesting and a worth-while read.
January 9, 2022
insightful and informative
This book went in depth into the issues of modern life, technology, stress, and mental illness. It was fascinating to read about the way modern life places extra stress in the brain and how burnout extends to most people, not just healthcare workers. It has me seriously rethinking values and lifestyle changes that so frequently exist in our lives.
This book went in depth into the issues of modern life, technology, stress, and mental illness. It was fascinating to read about the way modern life places extra stress in the brain and how burnout extends to most people, not just healthcare workers. It has me seriously rethinking values and lifestyle changes that so frequently exist in our lives.
May 9, 2022
Psychology update
In this book, the author introduces us to psychology and a few common diagnoses. Then we are informed about the prefrontal cortex and all that is does for us. Then possible reasons for issues in this area are explained. Although the research is still ongoing, there are some promising leads.
#GoodreadsGiveaway
In this book, the author introduces us to psychology and a few common diagnoses. Then we are informed about the prefrontal cortex and all that is does for us. Then possible reasons for issues in this area are explained. Although the research is still ongoing, there are some promising leads.
#GoodreadsGiveaway
March 14, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Frontal Fatigue provides practical insights and strategies that are easy to understand and apply in real-world situations. It's a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their skills and approach to business challenges.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Frontal Fatigue provides practical insights and strategies that are easy to understand and apply in real-world situations. It's a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their skills and approach to business challenges.
April 6, 2025
This book presents a compelling and logical argument based on research and experience to show the risk that modern life and more specifically, technology presents to our mental wellness. As we consider mental fitness and how to balance virtual life with traditional life, insights like this will be valuable and important.
May 7, 2022
It took me three months to finish as I kept losing interest. Personally I would’ve enjoyed more as an essay rather than a full book. I’m not sure who is the target audience, but it has a lot of good reviews so I’m happy that it found its base!
December 29, 2021
3.5
Approachable, thoroughly researched, and generally good information. Nothing in this felt earth shattering or revolutionary, but it was interesting and held my attention.
Approachable, thoroughly researched, and generally good information. Nothing in this felt earth shattering or revolutionary, but it was interesting and held my attention.
January 29, 2022
Enjoyable, interesting and useful information.
July 3, 2022
frontal Fatigue
Good book informative and gives much to ponder. Doesn’t give a lot of specific guidance on what exactly to do.
Good book informative and gives much to ponder. Doesn’t give a lot of specific guidance on what exactly to do.
March 15, 2024
Wish i got more out of this- a lot just sounded like Charlie Brown's teacher lecturing me.
February 20, 2022
Thank you Goodreads, for the free copy. Interesting book. Glad I read it.
March 20, 2022
A provocative and close examination of the role that modern life and technology have on our mental health. Highly recommended for those who are eager to dive deep into this important issue. Hope this and other recent books on the topic inspire more research.
April 1, 2025
2.5/5 ⭐️ listened to this on audio.
this was disappointing? i’m super interested in the topics i thought this would be about. i don’t even know how to articulate how this book didn’t work. the formatting? the jumping from topic to topic? the writing? the organization? was off. i just found myself saying “what are we even talking about right now?” often. there were a few topics that were super interesting/helpful, such as how the prefrontal cortex plays a role in those with autism and adhd as well as how our world looks so different on a day to day basis than it did 100 years ago. but in general, i couldn’t really tell you very many solid facts i learned from reading this book .. or what it was even about?? i wanted to love this
this was disappointing? i’m super interested in the topics i thought this would be about. i don’t even know how to articulate how this book didn’t work. the formatting? the jumping from topic to topic? the writing? the organization? was off. i just found myself saying “what are we even talking about right now?” often. there were a few topics that were super interesting/helpful, such as how the prefrontal cortex plays a role in those with autism and adhd as well as how our world looks so different on a day to day basis than it did 100 years ago. but in general, i couldn’t really tell you very many solid facts i learned from reading this book .. or what it was even about?? i wanted to love this
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews