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Once, newspapers, radio, and television were our primary sources of news. Then came the 2000s, and social media emerged as a new frontier. It didn't take long for everyone to become a content creator, broadcasting their own carefully curated "news feed" through platforms like Facebook, Twitter (now X), Instagram, and TikTok. Digital storytelling became a powerful tool for brands, influencers, and traditional media outlets alike. It also gave activists a platform, allowing their voices and views to travel around the globe. But, as the famous phrase goes, "with great power comes great responsibility." What happens when we ingest too much harrowing information? And what's the cost of standing up for what we believe in a world rife with prejudice and discrimination?

In this gallery, we explore the rise of digital activism fatigue and how to advocate without burning out. Click through to continue reading.

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In a world where every scroll brings a new petition, fundraiser, or hashtag, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. For those passionate about human rights and social justice, this constant flood of often distressing information amplifies the pressure to take action, turning doomscrolling into a real and exhausting experience.

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Digital activism allows for education, awareness, and swift action, but its constant nature leaves little room for rest. The result? Activists and supporters alike face burnout and compassion fatigue, often struggling to reconcile their desire for change with the emotional toll of staying engaged.

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According to a survey conducted at the beginning of 2024, the average American spends four hours and 37 minutes on their phone each day.

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Later in the year, another survey found that a large majority of US adults (86%) get news at least occasionally from a smartphone, computer, or tablet, with 57% doing so regularly. Additionally, just over half (54%) say they sometimes get news from social media.

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The allure of digital platforms lies in their ability to connect us to global movements, social issues, and personal passions at the touch of a button. The ability to access and spread information instantly has revolutionized the way we advocate for change.

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However, this connectedness comes with its own set of challenges. As digital spaces flood with real-time updates, activists are caught in a cycle where the demands of staying informed and engaged never end.

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This constant need to check, respond, share, and create cultivates a cycle of urgency, making it difficult to step back and disconnect. In turn, the weight of this constant advocacy can lead to exhaustion and emotional burnout.

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The sense of urgency that digital activism can create often leads to a belief that we must always be informed and involved in every cause. There's a fear that stepping back means falling out of touch, or worse, missing an opportunity to contribute to something crucial.

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This is especially true when we are surrounded by compelling visuals of protests, viral videos of injustices, graphic images, and calls to action, all of which seem to demand immediate engagement.

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But the reality is that overexposure to distressing content can have detrimental effects on mental health. Studies have shown that prolonged exposure to crisis-driven media can lead to increased anxiety, depression, and a feeling of helplessness.

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For activists, the emotional burden of witnessing constant struggles without the ability to solve them can lead to compassion fatigue, where the act of caring becomes too overwhelming to sustain.

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This is compounded by the emotional labor involved in online activism, where constant engagement requires not just a response, but a public display of support that can feel both exhausting and vulnerable, in addition to exposing you to negative comments and feedback.

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Another factor contributing to digital activism fatigue is the increasing performativity of online engagement. Activism in the digital age is often measured by likes, shares, retweets, and hashtag participation.

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While these actions can raise awareness and mobilize communities, they also risk oversimplifying complex issues into mere acts of online consumption.

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Additionally, some individuals may engage in activism not out of genuine passion, but to be seen as "doing the right thing," often driven more by a desire for popularity than a commitment to the cause.

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This performative aspect of digital activism can be disheartening for those who feel they must keep up with the latest trends or slogans, which may not always align with their own beliefs or methods of advocacy. This is especially true when the content shared online doesn’t always lead to tangible change, and activists feel the weight of their efforts without seeing corresponding results.

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Advocates who feel pressured to always be "on" might feel disconnected from the deeper reasons why they started advocating in the first place. Their focus shifts from creating meaningful change to maintaining a public image, which only adds to the emotional strain.

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For many, activism isn't just about creating awareness or taking action; it's about being deeply invested in the outcomes and the communities affected. But this level of emotional investment takes a toll.

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Activists often find themselves emotionally drained, unable to continue advocating for causes they care about. This emotional fatigue can lead to symptoms of burnout—exhaustion, cynicism, and a loss of motivation.

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The mental health impact of digital activism is a growing concern, as individuals constantly expose themselves to distressing content while balancing personal and professional responsibilities. This is compounded by online harassment and trolling, which can be particularly intense for marginalized groups advocating for change.

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For these individuals, the digital space can feel like a battleground, where their activism not only puts their beliefs under scrutiny but also invites personal attacks and threats. Taking care of mental health while engaging in activism is crucial to sustaining long-term involvement.

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However, the overwhelming nature of online activism often makes it difficult to prioritize self-care. The constant flow of news and the 24/7 nature of social media mean that stepping away from digital spaces can feel like an impossible task.

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Despite the challenges, there are ways to engage in digital activism without succumbing to burnout. The key lies in setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care while still participating in meaningful advocacy.

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Digital activism doesn't have to be limited to online platforms. Volunteering, attending local protests, or supporting causes in person can be powerful ways to make a difference without the emotional toll of constant digital engagement.

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Regular breaks from social media and digital activism are essential for maintaining mental health. Activists should make time for activities that replenish their energy—whether it's meditation, exercise, or simply taking time off to disconnect from digital spaces.

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It's easy to get discouraged when large-scale change feels slow or invisible. Celebrating small victories and acknowledging progress, no matter how minor, can help activists stay motivated and remind them that their efforts are making a difference.

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Digital activism has brought about unprecedented access to information and the ability to rally on a global scale. However, the continuous cycle of online engagement comes with significant emotional and mental health costs.

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To maintain long-term involvement in social justice movements, it is crucial for activists to take proactive steps in managing their emotional well-being. By setting boundaries, focusing on meaningful change, and practicing self-care, we can continue advocating for the causes we care about without burning out.

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In a world that's always on, finding the balance between advocacy and well-being is not just possible—it’s essential.

Sources: (Medium) (The Guardian) (The Cable)