Distinguishing Depression From Burnout
How do we know the difference between depression and burnout? Burnout can be mental and physical exhaustion that comes from feeling stressed, overworking, pushing yourself too hard and disregarding what your personal needs are. But depression is a whole different ball game.
The American Psychiatric Association discusses depression as a state of sadness and/or loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed that can lead to a decrease in your physical capabilities in your everyday life. According to the World Health Organization, burnout is “characterized by three dimensions: feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion; increased mental distance from one’s job, or feelings of negativism or cynicism related to one's job; and reduced professional efficacy.”
Questions we may ask ourselves:
Why do I feel exhausted and do not feel like doing anything after work?
What does depression feel like for people?
Why can’t I get things done as quickly as I used to at work? (1)
Burnout can come in many forms, whether in the workplace, in the home with your family, in your social environment. If you feel like you have an increase in symptoms such as loss of interest, difficulty concentrating, changes in appetite, trouble sleeping or thoughts of death; then you are crossing the threshold of feeling depression.
For example, your constant energy being drained at work continuing on for days can lead to severe sadness or depression if you do not take the time to notice, look at alternative solutions and re-evaluate where you want to be. Dr. Rebecca Brendel, president of the American Psychiatric Association, states that the key differentiating factor in burnout is that it gets better when you step away from work or that area in your life. Recharge can occur in self-care time or a vacation away for you, but with depression, it doesn’t just go away if you change your circumstances.
If you feel that one or more of these symptoms are prominent for you, it may be time to examine where you are at and where you want to be. A trusted friend or family member may be your first step to talk to someone about what you are experiencing, but if you feel that you need additional professional help, a member of our team is ready to help you discuss your thoughts on depression. Whether online therapy, in person at our Arlington, TX base therapy office, or through group therapy, we have options to meet your needs. Connect with a member of our team today.
