Keeping the Flame Alive

The Crucial Role of Mental Health for Human Rights Defenders

As the year draws to a close, the air is thick with both the satisfaction of hard-fought battles and the weariness that comes with relentless advocacy. For human rights defenders, queer activists, and safe abortion champions, this time of year often brings a potent mix of vicarious trauma and burnout. At Women Working with Women (3W), we understand the unique pressures faced by those on the frontlines of these critical fights. It’s why we champion the importance of mental health and the power of taking a step back to keep the fire burning.

Our journey throughout the year is a testament to resilience. From advocating for inclusive healthcare access for queer persons to fighting for safe abortion services in a country where abortion is restricted, our staff and champions have poured their hearts and souls into these causes. But as the demands of our work pile up, so too does the emotional toll.

As the end of the year approaches, one begins to feel the weight of vicarious trauma—absorbing the stories and experiences of those we fights for, coupled with our own battles.

It’s in these moments that the importance of mental wellness activities becomes glaringly clear. At 3W, we’ve implemented various strategies to support our team, from taking a week of rest every end of quarter regular check-ins and mental health therapy support. These activities have a profound impact on morale, teamwork, and overall wellness. They create a space where individuals can share their experiences, find solace in each other’s company, and recharge their spirits.

But one of the most powerful tools in our arsenal is the simple yet radical act of disconnecting from social media. In a world where information overload and digital noise are constants, stepping away from the screens can be a lifeline. It allows for moments of silence, reflection, and reconnection with oneself. For our team, this practice has been instrumental in reducing stress and preventing burnout.As the calendar edges closer to the end of the year, we recognize the build-up of exhaustion and emotional fatigue. This is why we emphasize the need for a few days of rest.

Rest isn’t just a break; it’s a form of resistance.

By prioritizing our well-being, we resist the culture of relentless productivity and honor the humanity in ourselves and our work.

At 3W, we believe in the power of rest and resilience. We champion for inclusive healthcare access for queer persons, including access to safe abortion, knowing that our strength lies in our ability to care for ourselves and each other. So, as we navigate the challenges and triumphs of our advocacy, we remind ourselves and our community: rest is resistance. Let’s keep the flame alive, together.