The Blog

2021-

2021-05-10 e
ACTIVISM INSANITY

Activism for Dummies

REVIEW: Make it Happen and How to Think Like an Activist

[...]
Still, for the aspiring activists approaching these two books, being angry at everything—even at vague "systems" and "constructs"—can be a heavy burden. Syfret says activism is "very tough and can expose individuals to extreme stress and trauma." It could help explain why young white liberals, a group enthralled with the activist worldview, report significantly higher rates of mental illness, including anxiety and depression, than their moderate and conservative peers.

Thankfully, chipping away at structural injustices can alleviate your psychiatric disorders. Syfret says activism "serves your mental health" in an "endlessly enriching journey" and quotes another activist who says protests are a "collective opportunity for group therapy." Forget MDMA: "Finding your crowd is like snuggling under a warm blanket, or being squished in the fold of a hug that tells you you're not battling alone," George writes.

It is fitting that both authors close their books with the same message to would-be activists: Prioritize yourself. Practice self-care. There's no point in protesting "if you're not demonstrating compassion towards yourself and prioritizing your own needs, health, and happiness," George says.

What else is activism for? Who's stupid enough to die for a cause and leave behind their mangled remains? "By its nature, activism is never done. There is always another cause that needs championing." In other words: Enjoy your career. read more)

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