Mental Burnout or Depression? Know the Difference and Get Help

Dr.Pavitra Shankar, 2 mins read

In today’s fast-paced world, many people are feeling tired, low and stressed. It is common to hear someone say, I am burned out or I think I am depressed. These words are often used casually, but they point to serious mental health issues. Whether you are a student struggling with studies, a working professional juggling deadlines, or a homemaker managing everything alone, mental burnout and depression can affect anyone. But while they may feel similar, they are actually different conditions and need different types of help.

What is Mental Burnout?

Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by too much stress for too long. It is often related to work or responsibilities that feel overwhelming and never-ending. People with burnout may feel drained, irritated, or helpless. It usually builds up slowly and worsens over time.

Common signs of burnout include:

• Constant tiredness, even after resting
• Trouble sleeping 
• Feeling unmotivated or losing interest in work
• Becoming forgetful or making careless mistakes
• Getting angry or frustrated easily
  
  

What is Depression?

Depression is a medical condition that affects your mood, thoughts, and body. It’s more than just feeling sad or tired. Depression can last for weeks or months and interfere with your ability to live a normal life. It can affect anyone, regardless of their background or lifestyle.

Symptoms:

• Feeling hopeless or empty
  
• Losing interest in things which you once enjoyed
  
• Changes in appetite
  
• Sleeping too much or too little
  
• Difficulty concentrating
  
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
  
  

Key Differences Between Burnout and Depression:

If burnout is ignored for too long, it can turn into depression. So, it is important to recognize the signs early and take action. 

What Can You Do?

If you think you are burned out, we can take a break or short vacation if possible. We can set our boundaries and learn to say “no”. We can talk to someone we trust and do activities that relax us. 

If you think you are depressed, don’t keep it to yourself, talk to a friend or family member. Consult a mental health professional (like a psychologist or psychiatrist) and follow the treatment plan given by your doctor.

Conclusion:

Mental health is just as important as physical health. If you or someone you know is struggling, don’t wait. Whether it is burnout or depression, taking the first step to talk about it can make a huge difference. If you or someone else in your family is going through this type of feeling, you should consult our mental health experts at Aakash Healthcare Super Speciality Hospital, Dwarka for personalised advice & treatment.