You would never be speaking with a case processing officer, so when you call IRCC you are not adding to their backlog or making it worse in any way because the call center agents are uniquely dedicated to answering calls for the benefit of applicants and to provide updates or program information on spousal sponsorship, adoption and a variety of other things.
While it is important to not abuse the call center service by calling too frequently, it is definitely there for us to use, and I recommend that people use it in conjunction with GCMS notes, should they so choose. (Even the preparation of GCMS notes is handled by dedicated staff, and not case processing officers.) Finally, different people handle their anxiety and stress differently -- it's important to not pass judgement or offer advice unsolicited.