Burnout vs Depression

Burn-out is generally defined as the “body and mind being exhausted from work”. Lack of support, resources and tight deadlines can all contribute.

Signs and physical symptoms of burn-out can include:

• Chronic fatigue in early stages, lack of energy and feeling tired most days

• Insomnia

• Forgetfulness, impaired concentration and attention

• Lack of enthusiasm

• Frustration and cynicism about work

• Reduced efficacy in the workplace

• Physical symptoms

• Increased illness

• Loss of appetite

• Anxiety

These symptoms can also be found in depression, hence the difficulty in discerning which of the two might be involved.

The key features that distinguish them is that burn-out occurs in the work context. In depression, negative thoughts and feelings aren’t only about work, but about all areas of life. Other typical symptoms of depression include

• Low self-esteem

• Hopelessness

• Suicidal tendencies

These are not regarded as typical symptoms of burn-out. So people with burn-out don’t always have depression. But burn-out may increase the risk of someone getting depression.

It’s important to recognise and to recover completely from burn-out. The following strategies can be recommended by your treating psychologist

• Think about the "why". (Taking the time to identify why you experienced the burn-out and explore what you can do to resolve it, e.g. adding more autonomy to your job, delegating tasks, working from home one day a week or even changing roles

• Focus on the basics (getting exercise, ensuring adequate nourishment and sleep)

• Take a good vacation or a leave of absence.

• Reassess your goals (this will help with identifying your values and thinking about what gives you meaning and what may be missing from your life or work)

• Say "No." (Try not to take on new responsibilities or commitments while recovering from burn=out).

• Practise positive thinking  (positive affirmations about the future, reflecting on positive aspects of your day, celebrating small accomplishments at work to help rediscover joy and meaning in your work again).