Woke and Well: Navigating Social Justice Awareness Without Overwhelm

Originally written in January 2020 and revisited in March, this blog remains as relevant as ever. As the world continues to grapple with challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, climate emergencies, political unrest, and human rights violations, staying informed without succumbing to anxiety feels harder than ever.

What Does It Mean to Be Woke?

There are countless definitions of "woke", but in simple terms, it’s about being aware of and engaged with current social justice issues. It’s about waking up to the realities of our world and staying informed about societal challenges.

As a psychotherapist, my passion lies in mental health, but I’ve been encouraged by colleagues to invest in causes outside my field to channel my extra energy. Research supports this approach: focusing on specific causes can make us more productive, helpful, and fulfilled. Even Hasan Minhaj, in his Patriot Act episode on mental health, advocates for intentional activism.

The Problem with Doing Too Much

While this advice sounds great in theory, my exploration of new causes revealed an unintended consequence: overwhelming anxiety and dread.

I dove into women’s rights groups, environmental action initiatives, animal rescues, childhood cancer fundraisers, and suicide prevention networks. Each cause aligned with my values, but the sheer volume of challenges these organizations face left me feeling paralyzed.

The Cost of Spreading Yourself Too Thin

When we try to stay woke to every issue, it’s easy to feel like the weight of the world is on our shoulders. This can lead to:

• Anxiety: Constantly consuming alarming information can trigger feelings of hopelessness.
• Burnout: Spreading your energy across too many causes leaves little room for rest or recovery.
• Paralysis: Feeling overwhelmed by the magnitude of problems can result in inaction.

How to Be Woke Without Breaking Down

The key to balancing awareness and mental health is mindful media consumption and intentional action based on your values. Here’s how:

1. Limit Media Exposure

Not every notification or headline needs your immediate attention. Set boundaries for how often you check the news or social media.

2. Choose Your Causes

Focus on one or two causes that resonate most with your values. By narrowing your efforts, you can make a more meaningful impact without overwhelming yourself.

3. Reflect on What Helps You Stay Balanced

Regularly assess which activities or habits help you maintain emotional equilibrium. Whether it’s journaling, therapy, or unplugging for a day, prioritize self-care.

4. Practice Gratitude and Small Actions

Celebrate small victories and the progress being made in your chosen causes. Small, consistent actions often create the most meaningful change.

Staying Woke While Staying Balanced

Being woke doesn’t mean shouldering the weight of every problem. It means staying informed and intentional about your efforts. By focusing on mindful media consumption and aligning your actions with your values, you can stay engaged without losing your peace of mind.

Take time to reflect: What’s helped you stay balanced through these challenging times?

Written by Lindsey Thomson, Registered Psychotherapist & Creatrix. Check out more of Lindsey's writing and her other free resources at www.mymomentummind.com.