Feeling drained, irritable and unmotivated is common, and it can be hard to know whether you are stressed, burnt out or depressed. The three overlap, but they are not the same.
Stress
Stress is your body and mind responding to pressure. It usually has an identifiable cause, such as a deadline, exam or family problem, and it tends to ease when the demand passes. Typical signs are tension, worry, irritability, poor sleep and racing thoughts. You can measure it with the stress test.
Burnout
Burnout builds up after long-term, unmanaged pressure, especially at work or in study or caregiving. The World Health Organization describes burnout as an occupational phenomenon rather than a medical condition. Its hallmarks are deep exhaustion, growing cynicism or distance from the job, and a sense of reduced effectiveness. Take the burnout test to see where you stand.
Depression
Depression is a medical condition marked by persistent low mood or loss of interest that affects many areas of life, not only work. It often involves changes in sleep and appetite, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, and sometimes thoughts of self-harm. Only a qualified professional can diagnose it. A screening tool is on our depression test page.
A rough comparison
- Cause: stress reacts to a demand; burnout follows chronic demand; depression may have many causes, including biological and life factors.
- Scope: stress and burnout often centre on one area of life; depression tends to colour everything.
- Relief: a holiday can help stress and sometimes burnout; it usually does not resolve depression.
They can occur together
Untreated burnout and chronic stress can lead to depression or anxiety, and depression can make work feel impossible. That is why it is worth taking symptoms seriously early.
When to seek help
Consider speaking to a doctor or psychologist if symptoms last more than a couple of weeks, affect your daily life, or include hopelessness or thoughts of self-harm. In India you can call Tele-MANAS at 14416, a free government mental-health helpline. If you are in immediate danger, contact emergency services.