Let’s Talk About Burnout
Photo by nikko macaspac on Unsplash
It’s not a novel idea to say that burnout and eco-grief are prominent within the climate justice movement. Many of us put our hearts and souls into this movement, which often takes a toll on our mental and physical well-being. Feelings of anxiety and grief can be overwhelming and sometimes act as a reminder to step back and take care of ourselves.
As we approach the end of the year, we want to acknowledge that many of us may be feeling the effects of burnout. With that being said, we thought it would be timely to share some tips and resources to help you manage and cope with these feelings.
1. Find Outlets
It’s essential to have healthy outlets to help manage and cope with feelings. These help keep your mind busy and provide the positive release you may be searching for. Outlets differ for everyone and can range from physical activity, art, photography, rec water activities, music, and more.
Reflection: What are some of your favourite ways to spend your free time? Or an activity you do that makes you feel recharged? Is there a way to incorporate that in when you start to feel burnout?
Photo by Jelleke Vanooteghem on Unsplash
2. Disengage with the Online World
The term “doomscrooling” has gained popularity over the past few years, and for a good reason. We are constantly bombarded with bad news, and that has been known to have a negative impact on our mental wellness. Logging out and disengaging with the online world can be beneficial when coping with burnout or eco-grief, even for short periods of time.
Reflection: How much screen time are you comfortable with? Do you know your limit, and have you found a healthy threshold?
3. Reconnecting with Nature
Ironically, sometimes when you're so focused on protecting nature, you forget to spend time immersed in it outside of your work initiatives. Nature provides the solace that we need to stay grounded, and the benefits are invaluable. This is a reminder to take a step back and reconnect with the places you know and love.
Reflection: What are some of your favourite nature spaces to be in? What nature do you have the easiest access to?
Photo by Jake Melara on Unsplash
Photo by Gary J Stearman on Unsplash
4. Strength in Numbers
Feelings of anxiety and grief are not uncommon within this movement. Find strength in numbers and reach out to friends or colleagues who may also be feeling the same way. It’s important to discuss how you’re feeling, and this is an incredible community with a number of people who are happy to talk about the personal implications that come with being in the movement.
Reflection: Who on your team do you feel comfortable reaching out to? Do you have a colleague that you can check in with when you are feeling overwhelmed?
5. Talk to a Healthcare Professional
Sometimes stress, anxiety, and burnout can be too overwhelming to manage on your own, and you may need to expand outside your friends, family, and colleagues to seek professional help. This is always a great opportunity to gain further insights into ways of coping and dealing with things such as burnout.". If you’re having a hard time managing your stress and anxiety, please reach out to a healthcare professional.
Reflection: Would you benefit from professional help?
Resources
Climate Wellbeing Resource Kit by The UBC Climate Hub
Greta Thunberg on how to tackle climate anxiety | The One Show - BBC
