Burnout vs. Depression: How to Tell the Difference

Learn to recognise the signs of burnout vs. depression and when to seek support

Feeling exhausted, unmotivated, or emotionally drained can make it hard to know what’s really going on. Is it burnout from stress, or is it depression? While the two can look similar, they aren’t the same—and understanding the difference can help you take the right steps toward recovery and support.

What is burnout?

Burnout is usually linked to ongoing stress, especially from work, study, or caregiving responsibilities. It’s the body and mind’s way of saying “I’ve had enough.”

Common signs of burnout include:

• Feeling constantly tired or depleted, even after resting.

• Losing motivation for work or tasks you once managed well.

• Becoming more irritable, frustrated, or detached.

• Trouble focusing or being productive.

• Physical symptoms like headaches, poor sleep, or tension.

What is depression?

Depression goes beyond stress. It affects your mood, energy, and outlook on life, often in a deeper and more persistent way.

Common signs of depression include:

• A lasting sense of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness.

• Loss of interest or pleasure in things you once enjoyed.

• Feeling worthless, guilty, or like a burden.

• Changes in appetite or sleep patterns.

• Thoughts of not wanting to be here, or wishing life could just stop.

How to tell the difference

Burnout often improves with rest, time away, or reducing stressors. Depression tends to linger and affect all areas of life, not just work or responsibilities. Sometimes, though, the two overlap—long-term burnout can develop into depression if left unaddressed.

When to seek support

If you’re unsure whether it’s burnout, depression, or a mix of both, you don’t have to figure it out on your own. Reaching out for support can help you make sense of what you’re experiencing and find a way forward.

• If you’re feeling completely overwhelmed, exhausted, or unable to cope, it may be time to speak with a counsellor or mental health professional.

• If you ever have thoughts of harming yourself, please reach out for immediate help by calling 000 (in Australia) or Lifeline on 13 11 14. You don’t need to go through those feelings alone.

Moving forward

Both burnout and depression are signals from your body and mind that something needs care and attention. With the right support, recovery is possible. Whether that means making changes to reduce stress, learning new coping tools, or working through deeper emotional struggles, you don’t have to face it by yourself.