☆ a zombie in my body

On tumblr I’m seeing a hell of a lot of young white kids yelling at anyone who actually follows those steps, and acting like burnout is a moral falling rather than a well-proven psychological phenomenon.

Preventing burnout.  Keeping the movement alive. 

What is burnout?  Burnout is the experience of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion often caused by longterm involvement in emotionally demanding situations. 

Effects of burnout on a movement.  In a 2015 study it was observed that roughly half of activists who experienced burnout did not take a break or hiatus. Instead, they ended up leaving the movement for good. 

Why is burnout common among activists?  Research has highlighted burnout among activists is usually caused by the setting of unrealistically high standards for oneself.  Activists commonly feel the weight of the world upon their shoulders, with a heightened sense of accountability, empathy, and guilt. 

Tips to fight burnout.  1. Identify your feelings.  Symptoms of burnout can include: 

Anxiety

Guilt

Isolation

Irritability

Anger

Sadness

Pessimism

Disappointment

Numbness

Fatigue

Insomnia

Lack of motivation

Physical pain/sickness

2. Talk to a trusted confidant. Whether a therapist or a friend, sometimes taking the opportunity to let out your thoughts and feelings with someone who understands us can alleviate stress, or point us in a direction we may not have yet considered. 

3. Find healthy outlets.  Work on a coping bank, a go-to list of activities and behaviors that give you a sense of fulfillment, relief, and replenishment when you’re feeling burnout. 

4. Learn when to step back.  While your voice is valuable, know that many others are willing to carry on the work you have done, until you’re ready to step back in.

“Just don’t give up what you’re trying to do. Where there is love and inspiration, I don’t think you can go wrong.” – Ella Fitzgerald. 

This is Fatima - @fatima-wael, and currently she and her family in Gaza need urgent help.

I've been in contact with her since last year, and she is a very kindhearted and strong woman. Her campaign page is vetted by @gazavetters, #640.

She lives in a tent with her husband, child, and siblings, and they desperately need money to afford rent, school fees for her siblings, and basic necessities such as food, water, and medicine for her sister & daughter.

Please find it in your heart to support this family, any amount helps. Even if it's just a dollar or $5, anything is better than nothing, and a little can go a long way.

If you aren't able to donate, please help to do everything you can to share this story widely as much as possible. This is an urgent situation, and this family needs as much help as they can get ASAP!!!

Thank you so much to everyone who donates and shares.