Many women who defend rights, support migrants, lead communities or work in humanitarian aid put their own lives on hold to care for others. The Venezuelan organisation CEPAZ sums it up clearly: burnout is not a badge of honour.
Warning signs
- Tiredness that won’t go away.
- Guilt when you take time for yourself.
- Isolation.
- Always postponing your own projects and wellbeing.
Women’s circles
CEPAZ runs horizontal circles of trust and listening, online too. They talk about topics often left out of activism: money, financial autonomy, pleasure, rest and personal dreams. Sharing breaks isolation and builds support networks.
Beyond self-care workshops
According to the article, wellbeing needs real funding: fair pay, social security, training and psychological support, not just one-off workshops.
From surviving to thriving
The goal is not only to endure the present, but to build a future worth living.
Breathing, pausing, sharing: practice can also be a tool for sustaining commitment.
