Burnout or Depression? Here Is How to Know

Burnout and depression share similar features that can make it challenging to tell the two apart. Burnout is considered situational, however, while depression can affect every area of daily life and function.
Depression and burnout represent different experiences, though the terms are sometimes used interchangeably to describe feelings of mental and physical exhaustion, emotional disconnect, and reduced motivation.

While burnout and depression may resemble one another in some aspects, several important differences set them apart.
What is the difference between depression and burnout?
Burnout and depression are not the same, but some debateTrusted Source still exists about where one ends and the other begins.

Areas of effect
One of the most defining differences between burnout and depression may be their areas of effect.
Burnout, also known as burnout syndrome (BOS), is notTrusted Source a formal medical diagnosis. The 11th Revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) defines it as an occupational phenomenon that does not apply to other areas of life.
Depression, officially known as major depressive disorder (MDD), is a mental health condition with a set list of diagnostic criteria. It often affects most or all areas of your life, including occupation, academics, cognitive abilities, emotions, social function, and personal agency.

Symptoms
Burnout and depression share certain symptoms, but these often differ in scope and duration.
Symptoms of MDD involve significant impairment or distress. They’re present nearly all day, almost every day, regardless of your circumstances.

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition, text revision (DSM-5-TR) lists the formal symptoms of MDD as:
• low mood (sadness, emptiness, hopelessness, despair)
• loss of interest in pleasurable activities
• unintentional weight or appetite changes
• sleeping too much or too little
• fatigue or energy loss
• restlessness or slowed motor function
• challenged concentration or difficulty making decisions
• recurrent suicidal ideation

To receive a diagnosis of MDD, at least five of these symptoms must be present during the same 2-week period, including low mood or diminished interest.

MDD may also feature physical symptoms such as:
• body or joint aches and pains
• headache
• cramps
• digestive issues

In burnout, symptoms are limited to occupational experiences and may improve once you’re no longer in that situation.
According to the ICD-11, burnout primarily encompasses three symptom categoriesTrusted Source:
• energy depletion (low energy) or exhaustion
• mental distancing, negativism, or cynicism regarding your occupation (feeling tired or indifferent about what you do)
• reduced professional efficacy (changes in performance or how well you do what you do)

A study from 2021 expanded on burnout’s symptoms and identified them as:
• exhaustion
• low concentration and decision making capabilities
• social withdrawal
• loss of empathy
• reduced work performance

Burnout doesn’t have defined diagnostic criteria, but other symptoms have also been reported, such as:
• increased anxiety
• low tolerance of frustration
• fearfulness
• inadequate sleep
• muscle tension
• headaches
• digestive issues