Burnout happens when we take on too much, too intensely, for too long. It is
a state in which we become unable to function effectively, or at all. If action
is taken when someone is sliding into burnout it can be prevented and the activist
can return to campaigning. If preventive measures are not taken, burnout can
seriously affect someone's life and at the very least cause them to give up
campaigning.
The symptoms of burnout are: chronic fatigue, minor illnesses, frequent headaches,
stomach pains, backache, disrupted sleep patterns, depression, anxiety, a sense
of being overwhelmed and hair-trigger emotions which quickly produce tears or
flare-ups.
The first stage in stress reaction is the release of adrenalin. which gives
temporary bursts of energy. By continually pushing ourselves harder, firing
on all cylinders all the time, we can stay on a high, but this cannot last.
The second stage is to relax, let go, curl up in a corner and recuperate. If
we stay in the first stage and ignore messages from our bodies that something
is wrong, then our bodies and minds will resort to something painful or dramatic
to get our attention - we bum out.
YOU ARE AS IMPORTANT AS THE CAMPAIGN!
This may sound like heresy, but without activists there is no campaign. You
need to look after yourself, we need to look after each other.
'The basic needs:
- adequate, nutritious food; vitamin pills to top up
- leep not only at the camps but also in a safe place
- Taking time out - a little time every day, a longer time every week
Nearly as essential are:
- relaxation techniques or meditation: find your own way of internally escaping
for 15-20 minutes
- treats: these may sound frivolous and dispensable, but when we are faced for
days or weeks with a distressing, painful, physically demanding situation we
need little breaks of personal pleasure to fill up the fuel tank.
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