Activism Fatigue: How to sustain hope when the world feels heavy

A Heavy Year for Activism

2025 was a big year for activism, not only in Ireland but also on an EU and global level. Students and Gen Z are noted as the largest cohort of activists, with the majority of people who report engaging in protests or demonstrations being under 40. There is so much to be active about in society, whether it be standing up in the face of the ongoing genocide in Gaza, the cost of living crisis sweeping Ireland, climate inaction, or the threat of war due to the increase in arms. However, with the never-ending social media videos of ongoing crises, how do we stay informed, yet not be overwhelmed? How do activists stay hopeful without feeling helpless against a rising tide of despair?

This article will provide a brief overview of activism fatigue and its causes to better understand how it is impacting people. Moreover, it will discuss how students and other activists can garner hope and momentum despite feeling fatigued. 

Why Burnout Happens in Social Movements

Dr. Laurence Cox from Maynooth University discusses activism burnout in social movements. In his paper from 2011, he suggests that burnout varies by occupation and that social movement activists are especially vulnerable due to the actions of their opponents. This becomes clear if we look at the fact that recently approximately 2700 protesters have been arrested in the UK for peacefully protesting the banning of Palestine Action in the UK. Cox states in his paper that “working with the police, other armed forces or opponents, witnessing injuries done to others, having to make choices as to who support, rescue etc. is related to not just direct oppression, but also added stress or trauma from witnesses and such oppression at the site itself”.

When Activism Becomes Dangerous

Activists are now facing threats that include intimidation and physical attacks. This can create shame, cause others to become fearful of engagement, and result in retention struggles. These threats are not evenly distributed. Women and working-class, ethnic minority, disabled, and queer activists are more at risk than those with social status and power. For example, Irish citizen Kitty O’Brien (25), was recently assaulted by Berlin police during a pro-Palestinian demonstration, and suffered a broken nose and humerus. As a result, videos went viral showcasing police brutality towards protesters in an open democratic state, making visible threats against activists that long stayed hidden.

The Lack of Protection and Accountability

Despite the growing hostility towards activists, there is little systematic tracking of intimidation or violence against those involved. This raises questions around due process, justice for and the safety of activists. The darker side of activism is not necessarily new, for those who speak out have often been exposed to danger. Throughout history, we only need to think of Martin Luther King Jr. or, closer to home, Michael Collins, as human rights activists who were killed for their activism. Amnesty International now states that on average 175 human rights activists are killed every year. Evidence suggests activists are especially at risk if they engage in political activity that threatens the power of governments or corporations. 

Social Media: Amplifier and Exhaustion Machine

Norwegian singer Aurora sums up the irony of current activism. She states “We’re more scared of activists than of the world dying or a war”. Aurora places some blame on the information overload of social media, which may cause viewers to lose empathy. Nevertheless, access to social media has offered more activists the possibility of discussing their activism and has given room to marginalised voices. In the case of Black Lives Matter (BLM), a global hashtag raised awareness of systemic racism. Similarly, the 2013 #MeToo movement gained millions of supporters, which gave space to discuss sexual violence against women. However, there are limitations to social media activism, which may link to the fatigue activists feel, including myself. We need nuance and critical thinking when it comes to the difference between performative and proactive activism. Did sharing a black box on people’s Instagram during BLM lead to any real change for the rights of People of Colour? Digital posts must be backed up with physical action in offline spaces. We also need accountability and accuracy when it comes to information being shared online. It is easy for activists to post their view on a situation, which will have their own ideology and beliefs attached. We have seen how the spread of misinformation online has led protest groups into taking to the streets. 

Sustaining Hope Through Focused Action

A remedy to overcome activism fatigue could be to focus less on the quantity but more on the quality of actions. Journalist and campaigner Sarah Woolley suggests to “find three causes you care about and focus on those”. Instead of tackling all global issues at once, reaching for something with clear and achievable objectives can help you feel less overwhelmed. However, this does not mean to ignore larger goals and long-term visions. In fact, they can co-exist with short-term objectives and help us feel hopeful, as we can see a direct impact (even if small). All action matters. It’s about finding a way that your action makes you willing to contribute again and again and again, witnessing impacts that are tangible, whilst simultaneously standing up for what is right and not forgetting our comrades. In time, you might find it easier to stand up for Global Justice and re-engage again, support your global comrades, and continue to fight for a better world from a place of sustained capacity and hope restoration resulting from seeing a form of activism that is reachable. This does not neglect the fact that activism deserves safety, and that systems and services need to be accountable for causing harm. However, I believe recognising the need to sustain yourself is necessary to show up again with hope and commitment. To close, there may be comfort knowing that you are a part of a wide range of activists all over the world who are engaged in small and large acts to create a better world, and ultimately to never forget that all our actions matter. 

Emma O’Toole is a recent graduate of Public Policy and Human Development from the United Nations University. Prior to this, she studied Sociology and Anthropology at Maynooth University. She has been an activist since the age of 18, following her own struggles with Ireland’s health system and the experience of seeking treatment abroad. More recently, she has been involved in local climate action, running a clothes swap project with Swords Tidy Towns. Emma is also a part-time yoga teacher.