Burnout, Anxiety or Depression: How Can I Tell the Difference?

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Burnout, anxiety and depression can feel similar.
You may feel exhausted, overwhelmed, unable to concentrate or unlike yourself.

But there can be differences.

What Might I Notice?

Burnout is often connected with prolonged demands or stress. You may feel drained, detached or increasingly unable to cope with things you once managed.

Anxiety may involve persistent worry, tension or a sense that something could go wrong. Your body may also feel constantly on alert.

Depression can involve persistent low mood or a loss of interest and enjoyment, sometimes accompanied by changes in sleep, appetite, energy or concentration.

These experiences can also overlap. Someone experiencing burnout may become anxious or develop symptoms of depression.

Do I Need to Know Which It Is?

Not necessary.

Rather than trying to label the experience yourself, it can be more helpful to notice what has changed, how long it has been happening and how it is affecting your daily life.

Not Sure What You’re Experiencing?

A Resilience Consultation can help you understand what you’re experiencing and identify appropriate next steps.

Written by Frieda Chan · Psychotherapist