Since depression and burnout have overlapping symptoms, it can be difficult to tell them apart. However, these are two different conditions. It is important to learn how to identify each one so that you can take the necessary steps to overcome them. Both these conditions can affect your day-to-day functioning, thoughts, and behaviors.
Depression vs. Burnout: What You Should Know
It is natural to feel stressed about certain situations from time to time. If you experience these emotions for a long period, it could be due to depression or burnout. Since burnout can manifest in various ways, scientists have yet to agree on how to define it. However, it is commonly agreed that persistent stress related to the job or other recurring activities like raising a family can cause it.
Symptoms of Burnout
Burnout is commonly associated with workplace stress. Let’s look at some common symptoms of burnout:
1. Fatigue and Exhaustion
Tiredness is a typical sign of burnout. It can manifest as a sense of mental or physical exhaustion or an inability to cope owing to a lack of energy. Bodily symptoms like body aches or digestive problems occasionally accompany exhaustion.
2. Fall in Efficiency and Performance at Work
When you are experiencing burnout, it may cause negative emotions and make it difficult to focus on duties. There may also be laziness and a lack of inspiration. Your performance may decline overall, and daily tasks are regularly impacted.
3. Feeling Cut Off From Activities Related to the Job
Common signs of burnout include feeling unmotivated about your work, being cynical about your job and coworkers, and feeling increasingly stressed or frustrated by your employment.
It is essential to take caution when differentiating between burnout and depression, as the symptoms mentioned above sound quite similar to those of depression. The majority of problems with burnout are work-related. Thus changes made in this regard will help. However, other crucial therapies like counseling or medicine might be required for depression. Also, remember that burnout may lead to depression but not the other way around. Burnout typically doesn’t show some signs of depression, such as:
- Low self-esteem and self-confidence
- Feelings of emptiness and loneliness
- Suicidal thoughts
Final Word
Most individuals with depression or burnout can benefit from the right care. Additionally, some professionals think that anxiety and depression can contribute to burnout. Therefore it’s critical to address them as soon as possible.
If you are experiencing burnout or depression, you can visit Ziks Health Service to receive professional mental health services in Dallas. Their skilled team offers depression treatment to help you cope with stressors so that you can perform at your best. They offer effective depression treatment in Dallas, Tempe, and Albuquerque.