Do you ever find yourself obsessing over the environmental work you do to the point where you don’t have time for anything or anyone else? Or, do you know someone like this? When you’re very passionate about something and thoroughly believe in the work you’re doing sometimes rest as well as your physical, mental and emotional health can suffer.

Environmental work in any capacity is very important and can become overwhelming due to the sheer magnitude of the environmental issues we face locally and on a global scale. The feeling that you’re “not doing enough” to make a difference or to counteract these issues could also be another driving force for overexertion and essentially becoming an Ecoholic. These feelings of guilt and shame can be overpowering, but you need to remind yourself as often as possible that what you’re doing is enough and it’s not worth sacrificing your wellbeing.

The term Ecoholic isn’t widely known or used, but originates from the book “Your Guide to the Most Environmentally Friendly Information, Products and Services in Canada” by Adira Vasil published in 2009. Isaias Hernandez also known as Queer Brown Vegan on Instagram has adapted the term so that it means there’s a lack of boundaries when it comes to the environmental work one does with their own wellbeing. Below we have 3 ways to deal with being an Ecoholic:

1. Create a schedule or routine

Balance is key. By doing this you set aside specific time in your day or week to do environmental work, whether this is online reading or research, producing content or going out into the field doing beach cleanups for example.

If environmental work is your job or forms a large part of your job, you need to prioritise time once you’re done with the work day to do something else that will get your mind out of the environmental space. This is an ideal opportunity to do something that prioritises your mental, emotional or physical health and can be something that you enjoy doing like another hobby or passion. Of course, in the beginning you may not necessarily stick to this schedule and there will be slip ups. The important thing is to hold yourself accountable while showing yourself compassion too.

2. Talk to someone you trust

The term Ecoholic is also closely related to Eco-anxiety. Overwhelming thoughts and emotions can be the driving force behind this behavior and sometimes all you need is to get things off your chest and get out of your own head. If you’re able to, talking to a licensed professional would be a great way to help, or you could talk to a loved one or friend that you trust. This can help you get to the root of the issue. You can even go as far as to ask someone to check in with you daily, weekly or monthly to find out how you’re doing and what you’re struggling with to help keep you on track.

3. Reach out to like-minded people

If you’ve been involved in environmental work for some time, chances are you’re already connected with people who are doing similar work and have the same passion. It’s more than likely they too have experienced being an Ecoholic in some form, and you could reach out to them for support too. If you don’t have any relationships with other eco-warriors, there are tons of groups and pages on social media where you would be able to connect and share what you’re going through because we can guarantee you’re not alone!