With so much troubling news, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, anxious or exhausted. Whether you’re an activist, a worried parent, a student thinking about the future, or simply someone paying attention, those feelings are completely understandable. But burning out doesn’t help anyone.
Resilience doesn’t mean pretending everything is fine – it means finding ways to stay steady, connected and purposeful, even when things feel hard. Rest isn’t giving up. Joy isn’t denial. The most sustainable change comes from people who are grounded and well, not depleted and overwhelmed.
Notice how you’re feeling and talk to someone you trust if things feel heavy. Find free and low-cost mental health support at https://www.mind.org.uk/
Spending time in nature is one of the most restorative things we can do – and one of the best reminders of what we’re working to protect. (Have you taken our Connect With Naturepledge?)
Focus on what you can do, not everything you can’t. Consider limiting your news and social media intake if it leaves you feeling worse rather than better informed.
Allow yourself moments of pleasure and beauty without guilt. Laughter, good food, creativity and time with people you love are not distractions from the work – they’re what makes it sustainable.
Take action. Offer to volunteer with an organisation you feel aligned with (like Greener Henley!) – connecting with like-minded people and being proactive can be really powerful.
