Fighting for the planet can be deeply fulfilling — and deeply exhausting. Whether you’re advocating for clean water, organizing communities, or battling bureaucracy, the emotional and physical toll of environmental activism is real. Burnout is common, but it doesn’t have to be inevitable. Taking care of yourself is just as vital as protecting the earth.

1. Pace Yourself. The climate crisis is urgent, but it won’t be solved overnight. It’s okay to take a step back. Not every email needs an immediate reply. Not every event needs your presence. Set realistic expectations for what you can do in a day, a week, or a year.

2. Celebrate Small Wins. Activism can feel like an uphill battle, so it’s important to recognize progress — even the little things. Did you help someone understand an issue better? Get a letter to the editor published? Those moments matter.

3. Find Community. You’re not alone in this work. Surround yourself with people who understand the struggle, whether it’s fellow activists, friends, or online groups. Sharing the load — and the victories — helps you feel less isolated and more energized.

4. Protect Your Joy. Engage in activities that have nothing to do with your cause. Spend time outdoors without an agenda. Read a novel. Dance. Bake. These things aren’t distractions — they’re part of keeping your passion sustainable.

5. Ask for Help. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or hopeless, it’s okay to reach out to a therapist, mentor, or trusted peer. You don’t need to carry the weight of the world alone.

Most importantly for environmental advocates… getting outside can be the biggest deterrent of burnout symptoms.

But burnout doesn’t mean you don’t care. It means you’ve been carrying too much for too long. Rest is resistance. And protecting your energy ensures you can keep showing up — for yourself, your community, and the planet.

Join the Wild Virginia community by checking out our volunteer opportunities or job openings today.