Is it Burnout or Depression? How to Tell the Difference and What to Do Next

Feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and unmotivated can be confusing, especially when trying to understand if these feelings are due to chronic work stress or a deeper mental health condition. Distinguishing between burnout and depression is an important step towards seeking appropriate support. What this means Burnout often stems from prolonged stress in work or caregiving roles, leading to exhaustion, cynicism, and reduced effectiveness in that specific area. Depression, on the other hand, is a broader mental health condition that affects all aspects of life, causing persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities once enjoyed, and changes in sleep or appetite, regardless of the situation. While burnout can sometimes lead to depression, they are distinct experiences. (Source: WHO Mental Health, NIH PMC on Parental Burnout) What to observe or prepare Pay attention to the context of your feelings. Do your symptoms primarily arise from and resolve with work-related stressors? Or do they extend to all areas of your life, affecting your relationships, hobbies, and general outlook? Keep a brief journal noting when you feel exhausted, unmotivated, or sad, and what activities or situations trigger these feelings. This can help you identify patterns. What not to assume Do not assume that your feelings will simply go away on their own or that they are a sign of personal weakness. Both burnout and depression are serious conditions that benefit from professional attention. Also, avoid self-diagnosing based on online information alone. When to seek help If your feelings of exhaustion and lack of motivation are persistent, significantly impacting your daily life, or if you experience symptoms like hopelessness, thoughts of self-harm, or a complete loss of interest in everything, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional. Early intervention can make a significant difference. What you can do next Consider scheduling a consultation with a doctor or a mental health professional. They can help assess your symptoms, understand the underlying causes, and guide you toward the right support. Sharing your observations about when and how your symptoms appear can be very helpful during this consultation. Sources * WHO Mental Health: https://www.who.int/health-topics/mental-health * NIH PMC: Parental Burnout: A Progressive Condition Potentially…: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12249155/ What kind of resources would be most helpful to you right now in understanding or addressing these feelings?