Burnout and depression share many overlapping symptoms including, exhaustion, lack of motivation, and emotional detachment, which can make it difficult to tell them apart. Understanding the key differences between the two is essential for finding the right support and strategies for recovery.
What is Burnout
Burnout is the emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion that comes from long-term exposure to stress, emotionally demanding situations, overworking, and pushing yourself too hard without taking care of yourself and honoring your needs.
(PsychCentral, 2022)
What is Depression
Depression is a psychological condition that requires medical and therapeutic treatment. It is also referred to as clinical depression, major depression, or major depressive disorder. More than just feeling down or sad, the condition affects both a person’s mind and physical abilities, causing feelings of despair, hopelessness, or even the feeling of being “numb” to life.
Overlapping Symptoms That Can Make It Hard to Differentiate
Both burnout and depression can involve:
- Chronic fatigue
- Sleep disturbances
- Reduced motivation
- Difficulty concentrating
- Emotional exhaustion
- Irritability
- Loss of enjoyment
- Physical symptoms such as headaches, muscle tension, or digestive issues
Risk Factors for Burnout vs Risk Factors for Depression
Risk factors for burnout may include:
- Working too much with no clear boundaries between personal/work life
- Lack of support in the workplace, at home, or with caregiving responsibilities
- Feeling judged or scrutinized by superiors
- Micromanagement
- Unclear values at work
- Losing track of goals
- Being pushed in several different directions
- Being constantly threatened at work
- Difficulty managing interpersonal relationships at work
- Frustration with “the system” or governing bodies that impact daily work
Risk Factors for depression:
- Family history of depression
- Increased substance use
- Unresolved grief or loss
- Sudden life changes
- A big move or change in jobs
- Breakup or divorce
- Adverse childhood experiences or trauma history
(Laub, 2024)
Burnout vs Depression: Key Differences
Some of the key differences between burnout and depression include:
- Burnout is typically related to workplace stressors and/or prolonged stress, whereas depression can be related to genetic factors, biochemical factors, psychological factors, and more.
- Burnout tends to lead to frustration and detachment while depression involves deep sadness and hopelessness.
- Burnout causes exhaustion that improves with rest while depression brings persistent fatigue, appetite changes, and sleep disturbances.
- Burnout affects work or specific tasks while depression reduces interest in all areas of life.
- Burnout can improve with rest and lifestyle changes while depression often requires professional treatment.
Seeking Help
If you are experiencing symptoms of burnout or depression, it’s important to seek support. While burnout can often be addressed with lifestyle adjustments, depression requires professional care. A mental health professional can help determine the best course of action for your well-being.
Prioritizing your mental health is essential. If you’re unsure whether you’re dealing with burnout or depression, reaching out for support is the first step toward recovery.
At Insight we have many therapists who can support you on your journey. You can book online or call us at 780-461-1717 to set up an appointment.
References
[1] Mandriota, M. (2022, February 17). What’s the difference between burnout and depression? Psych Central. https://psychcentral.com/depression/burnout-vs-depression
[2] Laub, E. (March 13, 2024). Burnout Vs. Depression: Understanding the Difference. Choosing Therapy. https://www.choosingtherapy.com/burnout-vs-depression/
