Sometimes the complex issues, negative news and the public apathy can be very disheartening for an active individual. To avoid getting overwhelmed by these issues, there are a number of things that might help:
– Instead of working on multiple issue, pick a single issue and work on that (this allows you to develop expertise and focus your energies instead of spreading yourself too thin).
– Find other people in your area who are working on the same issue and coordinate with them. This will help you learn from other people’s experience and work together on the issues you care about.
From the ACLU Activist Faq.