Guadalupe Gonzalez | April 11, 2022
A new study from the American Psychological Association found that American adults are feeling overwhelmed by everything that is going on in the world. 87% of U.S. adults said “it feels like there has been a constant stream of crises without break for the last two years. As people advocating for causes or working to support your community you are confronting those crises everyday. Unfortunately, people caring for others and supporting underserved groups often focus more on other people’s well-being but neglect their own health, which can cause burnout. While burnout seems like an individual issue, it can also hurt your organizations and causes if you have to take an abrupt break or leave due to burnout. To help avoid feeling overwhelmed and stressed while supporting your community, we’re sharing some of our tips to protect your well-being and that of the other’s around you.
- Know when to step up or step back: Community organizing and advocacy can and should be a group effort. Join a group, or recruit others to join you so that you can help out when your partners are struggling or step back and empower others when you are.
- Support network: We all need people, friends, or family that can provide support, a listening ear, or perspective to us. Some people have a therapist; others have a best friend or a family member that personifies this support.
- Find destressors: Activities like meditation,can reduce stress levels, and help you sleep better. Taking time to do a physical activity like dancing, playing a sport, or just taking a walk outside can clear your mind, give you a chance to catch up with friends, and spend time outside.
Your health and well-being are as important as your cause, organization, or community. You are important! Care for yourself as you care for others.
