🕷️ Crawler Inspector

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Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 110 (from laksa186)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa110.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/burnout-vs-depression\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/burnout-vs-depression\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/burnout-vs-depression","crawl_time":1775021869,"first_indexed_time":1680341899,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,medicalnewstoday!www,\/articles\/burnout-vs-depression s443","src_root_hash":"5853625527623639710","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Burnout vs. depression: Symptoms, causes, and treatment","meta_descriptions":["Burnout and depression share specific symptoms. Burnout symptoms tend to center around work, while depression affects all areas of life. Read more here."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Burnout and depression share specific symptoms and can be challenging to tell apart. Burnout symptoms tend to center around work, while depression affects all areas of life.\nBoth burnout and depression can negatively impact a person’s mental well-being and share similar symptoms, but they are not the same.\nBecause the two are similar, people may mistake burnout for depression and vice versa. This may lead to a delay in treatment.\nThis article explores the similarities and differences between burnout and depression and their symptoms, causes, and treatment. It also answers commonly asked questions about both conditions.\nPeople commonly refer to\ndepression\nand burnout interchangeably to describe feelings of exhaustion, emptiness, and inability to cope.\nBurnout may mirror\nsymptoms of depression\n, but burnout is\nnot a medical condition\n. The World Health Organization (WHO) includes burnout in the 11th Revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11). WHO defines it as an occupational phenomenon.\nBurnout\ncommonly occurs\nin service-oriented or “helping” professionals and those who persistently experience high stress levels, including:\nsocial workers\nteachers\ncorrectional officers\ndoctors\nnurses\ntherapists\ntrauma counselors\nIn contrast, depression or major depressive disorder (MDD) is a clinical diagnosis. It affects how a person thinks, behaves, and feels and can lead to a range of emotional and physical problems.\nA\n2017 study\nsuggests that the two appear to share a common biological basis. Several studies also show a\npositive correlation\nbetween burnout and depressive symptoms. This may mean there is an overlap between burnout and depression or that burnout is a potential risk factor for developing depression.\nHowever, a\n2020 study\nfound that their symptoms are distinct.\nA\ncritical difference\nbetween the two that can help people and professionals distinguish them is that burnout is situation-specific and often related to a person’s working environment.\nIn contrast, depression can show up regardless of a person’s circumstances and environment.\nBurnout and depression may have\nsimilar symptoms\n, including extreme exhaustion and feeling down. However, the two conditions also have important differences.\nDepression\nTo receive a diagnosis of depression, a person must have at least five of the following symptoms for\nat least 2 weeks\n, and they must cause a change in a person’s previous level of functioning:\ndepressed mood\nloss of pleasure or interest in activities previously enjoyed\nincreased fatigue or loss of energy\nchanges in appetite\npresence of slowed movements or speech or an increase in purposeless activity\nfeelings of worthlessness and guilt\nsuicidal thoughts\ndifficulty concentrating, thinking, or making decisions\nBurnout\nExhaustion:\nThis may include feeling drained, emotionally exhausted, tired, down, unable to cope, and not having enough energy. Physical symptoms include pain and gastrointestinal distress.\nAlienation from activities:\nPeople may become cynical about their work and colleagues and increasingly distance themselves from them. They may also feel numb about their work.\nReduced performance:\nPeople feel negative about their duties and tasks, causing them to become listless, lack creativity, and have difficulty concentrating.\nThere is also a link between burnout and reduced work performance, which may\nmanifest\nas:\nwithdrawal\nabsenteeism\ndesire to leave the job\nThe following outlines the causes of depression and burnout.\nDepression\nDepression\noccurs\nas a response to genetic, environmental, and psychosocial factors. These include:\nabnormalities in\nneurotransmitters\nsevere early stress\nhormonal abnormalities\nexperience of uncontrollable life events\ncertain personality traits\nBurnout\nBurnout is typically a response to a stressful workplace but can result from\nother stressors\n, such as taking care of an ill family member.\nIt\nresults from\nperforming at a high level until an overburdening workload or extreme or prolonged physical or mental exertion takes its toll.\nAside from the workplace,\nother factors\nmay affect burnout. These include:\nlearned helplessness\nenvironmental factors\npersonality factors, such as emotional instability and proneness to\nanxiety\nThe following outlines the treatment of depression and burnout.\nDepression\nDepression is treatable, and the treatment depends on the type of depression. Treatments such as medications, psychotherapy, and lifestyle modifications can help manage depression.\nSome of the medications approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of MDD include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and\nserotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors\n(SNRIs).\nHowever, a 2019 study suggests that\nup to two-thirds\nof people with depression do not respond to initial treatment with antidepressants.\nA\n2020 review of studies\nfound that CBT is an effective treatment for depression, and combined therapy consisting of medications and CBT is significantly more effective than using medications alone.\nMeanwhile, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) was the most effective treatment for severe major depression. Below are\nindications\nfor ECT:\nacute suicidality\nsevere depression during pregnancy\nrefusal to eat or drink\nsevere\npsychosis\ncatatonia\nBurnout\nrestore the balance between effort and rest\nfacilitate recovery from chronic stress\nimprove coping skills\nThe following\nmay help\npeople dealing with burnout:\nperforming self-care, including eating right, getting enough sleep, and regularly exercising\npracticing self-compassion\ndoing fun and enjoyable activities\nseeking social support from friends, family, and workmates\nbeing aware of one’s mindset and being open to changing perspectives\nreflecting on one’s profession\nidentifying and managing workplace stressors\nimproving coping skills such as communication and problem-solving skills\nensuring that work demands are manageable and reasonable\naiming for work-life balance\nPeople with burnout and those who think they are depressed may find it helpful to reach out to a mental health provider. A mental health professional can help provide a diagnosis and a treatment plan.\nA person with thoughts of self-harm, suicide, or death is having a mental health crisis. They may call 998 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for free and confidential emotional support.\nPeople who are uncomfortable speaking through a phone may text HOME to 741741 to connect with a volunteer Crisis Counselor at\nCrisis Text Line\nthrough text, chat, or WhatsApp.\nThe following are frequently asked questions about depression and burnout.\nIs burnout worse than depression?\nBurnout and depression have some similar symptoms, but burnout tends to revolve around work stressors. In contrast, depression affects different areas of a person’s life.\nCan you have depression and burnout at the same time?\nA\n2019 review\nfound that burnout may be a risk factor for depression, meaning that chronic, unresolved burnout may lead to depression.\nHowever, burnout and depression have\ndistinct symptoms\n. Most burnout issues are work-related, while the negative thoughts and feelings of depression are about all areas of life.\nDepression and burnout can cause similar physical and mental health problems, making it difficult for those affected to identify if they are experiencing depression or burnout.\nUnderstanding the differences can help people identify whether they should seek help and treatment.\nA person who thinks they need help for depression or burnout should speak with a mental health provider. Other resources, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and Crisis Text Line, can offer additional support.","attrs_markdown":"- Health Conditions\n  Health Conditions\n  \n  - [Alzheimer's & Dementia](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/alzheimers-and-dementia)\n  - [Anxiety](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/anxiety)\n  - [Asthma & Allergies](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/asthma-and-allergies)\n  - [Atopic Dermatitis](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/program\/investigating-atopic-dermatitis)\n  - [Breast Cancer](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/breast-cancer)\n  - [Cancer](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/cancer)\n  - [Cardiovascular Health](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/cardiovascular-health)\n  - [COVID-19](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/coronavirus?correlationId=2b137d5a-dcfb-464e-9ea6-72c5a54b4e92)\n  - [Diabetes](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/diabetes)\n  - [Endometriosis](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/endometriosis)\n  - [Environment & Sustainability](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/environment-and-sustainability)\n  - 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[Risk Factors](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/risk-factors-for-depression)\n  - [Hormonal Imbalance](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/hormonal-depression)\n  - [Genetics](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/is-depression-hereditary)\n  - [In the Morning](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/322155)\n  - [Accutane](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/accutane-depression)\n  - [Fasting](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/fasting-depression)\n  - [In Gen Z](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/why-is-gen-z-depressed)\n  - [Social Media](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/social-media-and-depression)\n  - [Substance Misuse](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/depression-and-substance-abuse)\n  - [Low Vitamin D](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/low-vitamin-d-and-depression-risk-factors-symptoms-and-more)\n- ### Complications\n  Complications\n  \n  #### Related Articles\n  - [Sickness](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/can-depression-make-you-sick)\n  - [Brain Zaps](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/brain-zaps)\n  - [Memory Loss](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/depression-and-memory-loss)\n  - [Anemia](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/anemia-and-depression)\n  - [Thyroid](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/thyroid-and-depression)\n  - [Caffeine](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/313988)\n  - [Suicide Risk](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/suicidal-tendencies)\n  - [Antidepressant Discontinuation Syndrome](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/antidepressant-discontinuation-syndrome)\n  - [Antidepressant Addiction](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/are-antidepressants-addictive)\n  - [Lithium Toxicity](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/327145)\n  - [Insomnia](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/can-depression-cause-insomnia)\n  - [Alcohol Use](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/327460)\n  - [Stopping Antidepressants](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/what-happens-when-you-stop-taking-antidepressants)\n- ### Diagnosis\n  Diagnosis\n  \n  #### Related Articles\n  - [Screening Tools](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/depression-screening-tools)\n  - [Diagnosis Overview](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/how-is-depression-diagnosed)\n  - [Zung Self-Rating Scale](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/zung-self-rating-depression-scale)\n  - [Misdiagnosis](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/depression-misdiagnosis)\n  - [Genetic Testing](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/genetic-testing-for-depression)\n  - [Who Can Diagnose](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/who-diagnoses-depression)\n- ### Home Remedies\n  Home Remedies\n  \n  #### Related Articles\n  - [Antidepressant Withdrawal Remedies](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/natural-remedies-for-antidepressant-withdrawal)\n  - [Home Remedies Overview](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/6-natural-antidepressants)\n  - [Herbs and Supplements](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/314421)\n  - [L-methylfolate](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/l-methylfolate-depression)\n  - [Sun lamp therapy](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/sun-lamp-therapy)\n  - [SAM-e](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/sam-e-for-depression)\n  - [Kratom](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/325747)\n  - [Probiotic](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/probiotics-for-depression)\n  - [Massage](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/massage-for-depression)\n  - [Acupuncture](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/acupuncture-for-depression)\n  - [Exercise](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/exercise-and-depression)\n  - [Meditation](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/meditation-for-depression)\n  - [Best Sun Lamps](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/sun-lamp)\n  - [Foods](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/318428)\n- ### Management\n  Management\n  \n  #### Related Articles\n  - [Weed](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/depression-and-marijuana)\n  - [Getting Out of Bed](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/325712)\n  - [Boost Serotonin](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/322416)\n  - [Disability Benefits](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/is-depression-a-disability)\n  - [Finding Motivation](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/315862)\n  - [Intervention](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/depression-intervention)\n  - [Journaling](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/depression-journal)\n  - [Support Groups](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/depression-support-groups)\n  - [Managing Career](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/managing-your-career-with-mdd)\n  - [What to Say](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/what-to-say-to-someone-who-is-depressed)\n  - [Management Overview](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/320502)\n- ### Prognosis\n  Prognosis\n  \n  #### Related Articles\n  - [Outlook Overview](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/does-depression-go-away)\n  - [Is It Curable?](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/can-you-cure-depression)\n  - [Signs of Worsening](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/depression-getting-worse)\n  - [Statistics](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/depression-statistics)\n  - [States & Severity](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/stages-of-depression)\n- ### Related Conditions\n  Related Conditions\n  \n  #### Related Articles\n  - [Fatigue](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/depression-vs-laziness)\n  - [Sadness](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/314418)\n  - [Anxiety](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/anxiety-vs-depression)\n  - [Autism](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/autistic-depression)\n  - [Erectile Dysfunction](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/can-depression-cause-erectile-dysfunction)\n  - [Grief](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/depression-vs-grief)\n  - [Chronic Illness](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/chronic-illness-and-depression)\n- ### Symptoms\n  Symptoms\n  \n  #### Related Articles\n  - [Symptoms Overview](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/326769)\n  - [Low Serotonin](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/serotonin-deficiency)\n  - [Signs of Relapse](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/320269)\n  - [Hidden Signs](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/325513)\n  - [What It Feels Like](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/314071)\n  - [Depressive Episode](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/322495)\n  - [Emotional Distress](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/emotional-distress)\n  - [Tiredness](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/322264)\n  - [Personal Hygiene](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/cant-shower-depression)\n  - [Weight Changes](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/depression-weight-gain)\n  - [Brain Fog](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/brain-fog-and-depression)\n  - [Impact on Brain](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/howd-does-depression-affect-the-brain)\n  - [Appetite Changes](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/depression-food-doesnt-taste-good)\n  - [Headache](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/depression-headaches)\n  - [Impact on Body](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/322395)\n  - [Apathy](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/apathy-depression)\n  - [Hyperfixation](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/hyperfixation-and-depression)\n  - [Existential Crisis](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/327244)\n  - [Lethargy](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/lethargy)\n- ### Treatment\n  Treatment\n  \n  #### Related Articles\n  - [Treatment Overview](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/depression-treatment)\n  - [Antidepressants](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/248320)\n  - [Wellbutrin](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/drugs-wellbutrin)\n  - [Cymbalta](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/cymbalta)\n  - [SSRI vs. SNRI](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/ssri-vs-snri)\n  - [Mirtazapine](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/mirtazapine-oral-tablet)\n  - [Amitriptyline](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/amitriptyline-oral-tablet)\n  - [Stopping Antidepressants](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/benefits-of-stopping-antidepressants)\n  - [Prozac](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/drugs-prozac)\n  - [Celexa](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/celexa)\n  - [Effexor XR](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/326678)\n  - [Zoloft](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/325632)\n  - [Paxil](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/325996)\n  - [Trintellix](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/trintellix)\n  - [Lexapro](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/drugs-lexapro)\n  - [Antidepressant Pros and Cons](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/pros-and-cons-of-antidepressants)\n  - [Trazodone](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/drugs-trazodone-tablet)\n  - [SNRIs](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/snri)\n  - [Zoloft](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/drugs-zoloft)\n  - [Auvelity](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/drugs-auvelity)\n  - [Spravato](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/326038)\n  - [Switching Antidepressants](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/switching-antidepressants)\n  - [Tricyclic Antidepressants](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/tricyclic-antidepressants)\n  - [Shock Therapy](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/shock-therapy-for-depression)\n  - [Treatment Centers](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/rehab-for-depression)\n  - [Therapist vs. Psychologist](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/therapist-vs-psychologist-for-depression)\n  - [Aplenzin](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/326372)\n  - [Brain Stimulation Therapy](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/brain-stimulation-therapy)\n  - [Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/transcranial-magnetic-stimulation)\n  - [Therapy](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/depression-therapy)\n  - [Ketamine](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/is-ketamine-addictive-when-used-for-depression)\n- ### Types\n  Types\n  \n  #### Related Articles\n  - [Types Overview](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/327429)\n  - [Relationship](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/relationship-depression)\n  - [Nostalgic](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/nostalgic-depression)\n  - [Agitated](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/320370)\n  - [Major vs. Persistent](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/major-depressive-disorder-vs-persistent-depressive-disorder)\n  - [CNS](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/314790)\n  - [Pseudodementia](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/pseudodementia)\n  - [Vs. Burnout](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/burnout-vs-depression)\n  - [Situational vs. Clinical](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/314698)\n  - [Mild](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/321385)\n  - [Existential](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/existential-depression)\n  - [Depression at Night](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/depression-at-night)\n  - [Spiritual](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/spiritual-depression)\n  - [Breakthrough](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/breakthrough-depression)\n  - [Work](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/work-depression)\n  - [Catatonic](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/322199)\n  - [High-Functioning](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/high-functioning-depression)\n  - [Seasonal Affective Disorder](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/10306)\n  - [Subsyndromal](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/subsyndromal-depression)\n  - [Geriatric](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/geriatric-depression)\n  - [Unipolar](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/unipolar-depression)\n  - [Postpartum](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/237109)\n  - [Treatment-Resistant](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/treatment-resistant-depression)\n  - [Severe](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/severe-depression)\n\n# What to know about burnout vs. depression\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/post.medicalnewstoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2021\/04\/Kendra_Kubala_500x500_Med_Reviewer_Photos_v2.png?w=105&h=105)\n\n[Medically reviewed]() by [Kendra Kubala, PsyD]() — Written by [Rachel Ann Tee-Melegrito]()  on February 28, 2023\n\n- [Are they the same thing?](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/burnout-vs-depression#are-they-the-same-thing)\n- [Symptoms](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/burnout-vs-depression#symptoms)\n- [Causes](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/burnout-vs-depression#causes)\n- [Treatment](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/burnout-vs-depression#treatment)\n- [Support](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/burnout-vs-depression#support)\n- [FAQ](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/burnout-vs-depression#faq)\n- [Summary](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/burnout-vs-depression#summary)\n\nBurnout and depression share specific symptoms and can be challenging to tell apart. Burnout symptoms tend to center around work, while depression affects all areas of life.\n\nBoth burnout and depression can negatively impact a person’s mental well-being and share similar symptoms, but they are not the same.\n\nBecause the two are similar, people may mistake burnout for depression and vice versa. This may lead to a delay in treatment.\n\nThis article explores the similarities and differences between burnout and depression and their symptoms, causes, and treatment. It also answers commonly asked questions about both conditions.\n\n## [Are burnout and depression the same thing?]()\n![A nurse sitting on a bench and experiencing burnout or depression -1](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/post.medicalnewstoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2023\/02\/burnout_vs_depression_what_to_know_1296x728_header-1024x575.jpg?w=1155&h=1528)\n\n[Share on Pinterest](https:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/pin\/create\/button\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.medicalnewstoday.com%2Farticles%2Fburnout-vs-depression&media=https%3A%2F%2Fpost.medicalnewstoday.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fsites%2F3%2F2023%2F02%2Fburnout_vs_depression_what_to_know_1296x728_header-1024x575.jpg&description=Burnout%20vs.%20depression%3A%20Symptoms%2C%20causes%2C%20and%20treatment \"Share on Pinterest\")\n\nKong Ding Chek\/Getty Images\n\nPeople commonly refer to [depression](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/8933) and burnout interchangeably to describe feelings of exhaustion, emptiness, and inability to cope.\n\nBurnout may mirror [symptoms of depression](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/326769), but burnout is [not a medical condition](https:\/\/www.who.int\/news\/item\/28-05-2019-burn-out-an-occupational-phenomenon-international-classification-of-diseases). The World Health Organization (WHO) includes burnout in the 11th Revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11). WHO defines it as an occupational phenomenon.\n\nThe [American Psychiatric Association (APA)](https:\/\/ajp.psychiatryonline.org\/doi\/10.1176\/appi.ajp.2020.19090901) considers burnout an experience rather than a diagnosis. It is a [result](https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/articles\/10.3389\/fpsyg.2019.00284\/full#main-content) of prolonged interpersonal stressors at work.\n\nBurnout [commonly occurs](https:\/\/dictionary.apa.org\/burnout) in service-oriented or “helping” professionals and those who persistently experience high stress levels, including:\n\n- social workers\n- teachers\n- correctional officers\n- doctors\n- nurses\n- therapists\n- trauma counselors\n\nIn contrast, depression or major depressive disorder (MDD) is a clinical diagnosis. It affects how a person thinks, behaves, and feels and can lead to a range of emotional and physical problems.\n\nA [2017 study](https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/abs\/pii\/S0022399916304949) suggests that the two appear to share a common biological basis. Several studies also show a [positive correlation](https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/articles\/10.3389\/fpsyg.2019.00284\/full#main-content) between burnout and depressive symptoms. This may mean there is an overlap between burnout and depression or that burnout is a potential risk factor for developing depression.\n\nHowever, a [2020 study](https:\/\/jamanetwork.com\/journals\/jamanetworkopen\/fullarticle\/2774460) found that their symptoms are distinct.\n\nA [critical difference](https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/articles\/10.3389\/fpsyg.2019.00284\/full#main-content) between the two that can help people and professionals distinguish them is that burnout is situation-specific and often related to a person’s working environment.\n\nIn contrast, depression can show up regardless of a person’s circumstances and environment.\n\n## [Symptoms]()\nBurnout and depression may have [similar symptoms](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK279286\/), including extreme exhaustion and feeling down. However, the two conditions also have important differences.\n\n### Depression\nTo receive a diagnosis of depression, a person must have at least five of the following symptoms for [at least 2 weeks](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/depression\/what-is-depression), and they must cause a change in a person’s previous level of functioning:\n\n- depressed mood\n- loss of pleasure or interest in activities previously enjoyed\n- increased fatigue or loss of energy\n- changes in appetite\n- presence of slowed movements or speech or an increase in purposeless activity\n- feelings of worthlessness and guilt\n- suicidal thoughts\n- difficulty concentrating, thinking, or making decisions\n\n[Learn more about the effects of depression on the body](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/322395).\n\n### Burnout\nBurnout has [three main](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK279286\/) symptoms:\n\n- **Exhaustion:** This may include feeling drained, emotionally exhausted, tired, down, unable to cope, and not having enough energy. Physical symptoms include pain and gastrointestinal distress.\n- **Alienation from activities:** People may become cynical about their work and colleagues and increasingly distance themselves from them. They may also feel numb about their work.\n- **Reduced performance:** People feel negative about their duties and tasks, causing them to become listless, lack creativity, and have difficulty concentrating.\n\nThere is also a link between burnout and reduced work performance, which may [manifest](https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/articles\/10.3389\/fpsyg.2019.00284\/full#main-content) as:\n\n- withdrawal\n- absenteeism\n- desire to leave the job\n\n[Read more about burnout symptoms here](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/burnout-symptoms).\n\n## [Causes]()\nThe following outlines the causes of depression and burnout.\n\n### Depression\nDepression [occurs](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK559078\/) as a response to genetic, environmental, and psychosocial factors. These include:\n\n- abnormalities in [neurotransmitters](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/326649)\n- severe early stress\n- hormonal abnormalities\n- experience of uncontrollable life events\n- certain personality traits\n### Burnout\nBurnout is typically a response to a stressful workplace but can result from [other stressors](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK279286\/), such as taking care of an ill family member.\n\nIt [results from](https:\/\/dictionary.apa.org\/burnout) performing at a high level until an overburdening workload or extreme or prolonged physical or mental exertion takes its toll.\n\nAside from the workplace, [other factors](https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/articles\/10.3389\/fpsyg.2019.00284\/full#main-content) may affect burnout. These include:\n\n- [learned helplessness](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/325355)\n- environmental factors\n- personality factors, such as emotional instability and proneness to [anxiety](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/323454)\n\n## [Treatment]()\nThe following outlines the treatment of depression and burnout.\n\n### Depression\nDepression is treatable, and the treatment depends on the type of depression. Treatments such as medications, psychotherapy, and lifestyle modifications can help manage depression.\n\nSome of the medications approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of MDD include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and [serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/snri) (SNRIs).\n\nHowever, a 2019 study suggests that [up to two-thirds](https:\/\/bmcpsychiatry.biomedcentral.com\/articles\/10.1186\/s12888-019-2222-4) of people with depression do not respond to initial treatment with antidepressants.\n\n[Cognitive behavioral therapy](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/296579) (CBT) and interpersonal therapy are forms of [psychotherapy](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/156433) that medical professionals commonly use to treat depression.\n\nA [2020 review of studies](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC7001356\/) found that CBT is an effective treatment for depression, and combined therapy consisting of medications and CBT is significantly more effective than using medications alone.\n\nMeanwhile, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) was the most effective treatment for severe major depression. Below are [indications](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK559078\/) for ECT:\n\n- acute suicidality\n- severe depression during pregnancy\n- refusal to eat or drink\n- severe [psychosis](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/248159)\n- catatonia\n### Burnout\nTreatments for burnout [all aim to](https:\/\/www.tandfonline.com\/doi\/full\/10.1080\/1359432X.2021.1948400):\n\n- restore the balance between effort and rest\n- facilitate recovery from chronic stress\n- improve coping skills\n\nThe following [may help](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5901844\/) people dealing with burnout:\n\n- performing self-care, including eating right, getting enough sleep, and regularly exercising\n- practicing self-compassion\n- doing fun and enjoyable activities\n- seeking social support from friends, family, and workmates\n- being aware of one’s mindset and being open to changing perspectives\n- reflecting on one’s profession\n- identifying and managing workplace stressors\n- improving coping skills such as communication and problem-solving skills\n- ensuring that work demands are manageable and reasonable\n- aiming for work-life balance\n\n## [Where to find support]()\nPeople with burnout and those who think they are depressed may find it helpful to reach out to a mental health provider. A mental health professional can help provide a diagnosis and a treatment plan.\n\nA person with thoughts of self-harm, suicide, or death is having a mental health crisis. They may call 998 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for free and confidential emotional support.\n\nPeople who are uncomfortable speaking through a phone may text HOME to 741741 to connect with a volunteer Crisis Counselor at [Crisis Text Line](https:\/\/www.crisistextline.org\/) through text, chat, or WhatsApp.\n\n## [Frequently asked questions]()\nThe following are frequently asked questions about depression and burnout.\n\n### Is burnout worse than depression?\nBurnout and depression have some similar symptoms, but burnout tends to revolve around work stressors. In contrast, depression affects different areas of a person’s life.\n\n### Can you have depression and burnout at the same time?\nA [2019 review](https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/articles\/10.3389\/fpsyg.2019.00284\/full#main-content) found that burnout may be a risk factor for depression, meaning that chronic, unresolved burnout may lead to depression.\n\nHowever, burnout and depression have [distinct symptoms](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK279286\/). Most burnout issues are work-related, while the negative thoughts and feelings of depression are about all areas of life.\n\n## [Summary]()\nDepression and burnout can cause similar physical and mental health problems, making it difficult for those affected to identify if they are experiencing depression or burnout.\n\nUnderstanding the differences can help people identify whether they should seek help and treatment.\n\nA person who thinks they need help for depression or burnout should speak with a mental health provider. Other resources, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and Crisis Text Line, can offer additional support.\n\n- [Depression](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/categories\/depression)\n- [Mental Health](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/categories\/mental-health)\n- [Anxiety \/ Stress](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/categories\/anxiety)\n- [Psychology \/ Psychiatry](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/categories\/psychology-psychiatry)\n\n### How we reviewed this article:\nSources\n\nMedical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We only use quality, credible sources to ensure content accuracy and integrity. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our [editorial policy](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/process).\n\n- APA dictionary of psychology. (n.d.).   \n  <https:\/\/dictionary.apa.org\/burnout>\n- Bakusic, J., *et al*. (2017). Stress, burnout and depression: A systematic review on DNA methylation mechanisms.   \n  <https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/abs\/pii\/S0022399916304949>\n- Bains, N., *et al.* (2022). Major depressive disorder.  \n  <https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK559078\/>\n- Burn-out an “occupational phenomenon”: International classification of diseases. (2019).   \n  <https:\/\/www.who.int\/news\/item\/28-05-2019-burn-out-an-occupational-phenomenon-international-classification-of-diseases>\n- Depression: What is burnout? (2020).  \n  <https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK279286\/>\n- Jaffe, D., *et al.* (2019). The humanistic and economic burden of treatment-resistant depression in Europe: A cross-sectional study.  \n  <https:\/\/bmcpsychiatry.biomedcentral.com\/articles\/10.1186\/s12888-019-2222-4>\n- Koutsimani, P., *et al.* (2019). The relationship between burnout, depression, and anxiety: A systematic review and meta-analysis.   \n  <https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/articles\/10.3389\/fpsyg.2019.00284\/full#main-content>\n- Fischer, R., *et al.* (2020). Association of burnout with depression and anxiety in critical care clinicians in Brazil.  \n  <https:\/\/jamanetwork.com\/journals\/jamanetworkopen\/fullarticle\/2774460>\n- Gautam, M., *et al.* (2020). Cognitive behavioral therapy for depression.  \n  <https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC7001356\/>\n- Schonfeld, I., *et al.* (2016). Burnout and depression: Two entities or one.  \n  <https:\/\/academicworks.cuny.edu\/cgi\/viewcontent.cgi?article=1276&context=gc_pubs>\n- Stoewen, D. (2018). Burnout: Prescription for a happier healthier you.  \n  <https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5901844\/>\n- Summers, R., *et al.* (2020). Well-being, burnout, and depression among North American psychiatrists: The state of our profession.   \n  <https:\/\/ajp.psychiatryonline.org\/doi\/10.1176\/appi.ajp.2020.19090901>\n- Torres, F. (2020). What is depression?  \n  <https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/depression\/what-is-depression>\n- van Dam, A., *et al.* (2021). A clinical perspective on burnout: Diagnosis, classification, and treatment of clinical burnout.  \n  <https:\/\/www.tandfonline.com\/doi\/full\/10.1080\/1359432X.2021.1948400>\n\nShare this article\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/post.medicalnewstoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2021\/04\/Kendra_Kubala_500x500_Med_Reviewer_Photos_v2.png?w=105&h=105)\n\n[Medically reviewed]() by [Kendra Kubala, PsyD]() — Written by [Rachel Ann Tee-Melegrito]()  on February 28, 2023\n\n## Latest news\n- [9 steps to improve heart health, per new dietary guidance from AHA](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/9-steps-improve-heart-health-diet-guidance-aha)\n- [AI model can accurately predict liver cancer risk, study suggests](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/ai-model-accurately-predict-liver-cancer-risk)\n- [AI-powered stroke tool linked to improved patient outcomes in large clinical trial](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/ai-powered-stroke-tool-linked-improved-patient-outcomes-large-clinical-trial)\n- [Eating same meals on repeat, and more at weekends may help you lose more weight](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/eating-same-meals-repeat-more-weekends-may-help-lose-more-weight)\n- [Cooking at least one meal at home weekly may cut dementia risk by up to 67%](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/cooking-at-least-one-meal-at-home-weekly-may-cut-dementia-risk)\n\n### Related Coverage\n- [Depression statistics](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/depression-statistics?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  Medically reviewed by [Francis Kuehnle, MSN, RN-BC](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/reviewers)\n  \n  [Depression affects people of different ages from all sorts of socioeconomic backgrounds. Learn more about depression statistics and prevalence here.](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/depression-statistics?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/depression-statistics?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [Physical and mental benefits of swimming](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/321496?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  Medically reviewed by [Jake Tipane, CPT](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/reviewers)\n  \n  [Swimming can benefit the mind and body in various ways. 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Learn how to treat and manage this condition with home strategies here.](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/tips-to-manage-seasonal-depression?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/tips-to-manage-seasonal-depression?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [Is sleep the missing piece in mental health?](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/is-sleep-the-missing-piece-in-mental-health?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [This podcast episode explores the two-way relationship between sleep and mental health, the science of sleep cycles, sleep supplements, and the role…](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/is-sleep-the-missing-piece-in-mental-health?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/is-sleep-the-missing-piece-in-mental-health?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [Frequent AI use linked to higher depression rates, study warns](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/frequent-ai-use-linked-to-higher-depression-rates-study-warns?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [Personal usage of generative AI may increase the risk of depression, anxiety, and irritability, a new study finds.](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/frequent-ai-use-linked-to-higher-depression-rates-study-warns?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/frequent-ai-use-linked-to-higher-depression-rates-study-warns?utm_source=ReadNext)\n\n© 2026 Healthline Media UK Ltd, London, UK. All rights reserved. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. Healthline Media is an RVO Health Company. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. 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Healthline Media is an RVO Health Company. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. [See additional information](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/about\/additional-information).\n\n© 2026 Healthline Media UK Ltd, London, UK. All rights reserved. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. Healthline Media is an RVO Health Company. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. [See additional information](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/about\/additional-information).\n\n[About](https:\/\/www.healthlinemedia.com\/?utm_source=medicalnewstoday.com&utm_medium=site&utm_campaign=footer&utm_content=about)[Careers](https:\/\/rvohealth.com\/careers)[Advertise with us](https:\/\/www.healthlinemedia.com\/advertise?utm_source=medicalnewstoday.com&utm_medium=site&utm_campaign=footer&utm_content=advertise)\n\nOUR BRANDS\n\n[Healthline](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/)[Medical News Today](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/)[Greatist](https:\/\/greatist.com\/)[Psych Central](https:\/\/psychcentral.com\/)[Bezzy](https:\/\/bezzy.com\/)\n\n![](http:\/\/b.scorecardresearch.com\/p?c1=2&c2=38584006&cv=3.9&cj=1&comscorekw=main)","attrs_readable_markdown":"Burnout and depression share specific symptoms and can be challenging to tell apart. Burnout symptoms tend to center around work, while depression affects all areas of life.\n\nBoth burnout and depression can negatively impact a person’s mental well-being and share similar symptoms, but they are not the same.\n\nBecause the two are similar, people may mistake burnout for depression and vice versa. This may lead to a delay in treatment.\n\nThis article explores the similarities and differences between burnout and depression and their symptoms, causes, and treatment. It also answers commonly asked questions about both conditions.\n\nPeople commonly refer to [depression](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/8933) and burnout interchangeably to describe feelings of exhaustion, emptiness, and inability to cope.\n\nBurnout may mirror [symptoms of depression](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/326769), but burnout is [not a medical condition](https:\/\/www.who.int\/news\/item\/28-05-2019-burn-out-an-occupational-phenomenon-international-classification-of-diseases). The World Health Organization (WHO) includes burnout in the 11th Revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11). WHO defines it as an occupational phenomenon.\n\nBurnout [commonly occurs](https:\/\/dictionary.apa.org\/burnout) in service-oriented or “helping” professionals and those who persistently experience high stress levels, including:\n\n- social workers\n- teachers\n- correctional officers\n- doctors\n- nurses\n- therapists\n- trauma counselors\n\nIn contrast, depression or major depressive disorder (MDD) is a clinical diagnosis. It affects how a person thinks, behaves, and feels and can lead to a range of emotional and physical problems.\n\nA [2017 study](https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/abs\/pii\/S0022399916304949) suggests that the two appear to share a common biological basis. Several studies also show a [positive correlation](https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/articles\/10.3389\/fpsyg.2019.00284\/full#main-content) between burnout and depressive symptoms. This may mean there is an overlap between burnout and depression or that burnout is a potential risk factor for developing depression.\n\nHowever, a [2020 study](https:\/\/jamanetwork.com\/journals\/jamanetworkopen\/fullarticle\/2774460) found that their symptoms are distinct.\n\nA [critical difference](https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/articles\/10.3389\/fpsyg.2019.00284\/full#main-content) between the two that can help people and professionals distinguish them is that burnout is situation-specific and often related to a person’s working environment.\n\nIn contrast, depression can show up regardless of a person’s circumstances and environment.\n\nBurnout and depression may have [similar symptoms](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK279286\/), including extreme exhaustion and feeling down. However, the two conditions also have important differences.\n\nDepression\n\nTo receive a diagnosis of depression, a person must have at least five of the following symptoms for [at least 2 weeks](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/depression\/what-is-depression), and they must cause a change in a person’s previous level of functioning:\n\n- depressed mood\n- loss of pleasure or interest in activities previously enjoyed\n- increased fatigue or loss of energy\n- changes in appetite\n- presence of slowed movements or speech or an increase in purposeless activity\n- feelings of worthlessness and guilt\n- suicidal thoughts\n- difficulty concentrating, thinking, or making decisions\n\nBurnout\n\n- **Exhaustion:** This may include feeling drained, emotionally exhausted, tired, down, unable to cope, and not having enough energy. Physical symptoms include pain and gastrointestinal distress.\n- **Alienation from activities:** People may become cynical about their work and colleagues and increasingly distance themselves from them. They may also feel numb about their work.\n- **Reduced performance:** People feel negative about their duties and tasks, causing them to become listless, lack creativity, and have difficulty concentrating.\n\nThere is also a link between burnout and reduced work performance, which may [manifest](https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/articles\/10.3389\/fpsyg.2019.00284\/full#main-content) as:\n\n- withdrawal\n- absenteeism\n- desire to leave the job\n\nThe following outlines the causes of depression and burnout.\n\nDepression\n\nDepression [occurs](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK559078\/) as a response to genetic, environmental, and psychosocial factors. These include:\n\n- abnormalities in [neurotransmitters](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/326649)\n- severe early stress\n- hormonal abnormalities\n- experience of uncontrollable life events\n- certain personality traits\n\nBurnout\n\nBurnout is typically a response to a stressful workplace but can result from [other stressors](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK279286\/), such as taking care of an ill family member.\n\nIt [results from](https:\/\/dictionary.apa.org\/burnout) performing at a high level until an overburdening workload or extreme or prolonged physical or mental exertion takes its toll.\n\nAside from the workplace, [other factors](https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/articles\/10.3389\/fpsyg.2019.00284\/full#main-content) may affect burnout. These include:\n\n- [learned helplessness](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/325355)\n- environmental factors\n- personality factors, such as emotional instability and proneness to [anxiety](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/323454)\n\nThe following outlines the treatment of depression and burnout.\n\nDepression\n\nDepression is treatable, and the treatment depends on the type of depression. Treatments such as medications, psychotherapy, and lifestyle modifications can help manage depression.\n\nSome of the medications approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of MDD include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and [serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/snri) (SNRIs).\n\nHowever, a 2019 study suggests that [up to two-thirds](https:\/\/bmcpsychiatry.biomedcentral.com\/articles\/10.1186\/s12888-019-2222-4) of people with depression do not respond to initial treatment with antidepressants.\n\nA [2020 review of studies](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC7001356\/) found that CBT is an effective treatment for depression, and combined therapy consisting of medications and CBT is significantly more effective than using medications alone.\n\nMeanwhile, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) was the most effective treatment for severe major depression. Below are [indications](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK559078\/) for ECT:\n\n- acute suicidality\n- severe depression during pregnancy\n- refusal to eat or drink\n- severe [psychosis](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/248159)\n- catatonia\n\nBurnout\n\n- restore the balance between effort and rest\n- facilitate recovery from chronic stress\n- improve coping skills\n\nThe following [may help](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5901844\/) people dealing with burnout:\n\n- performing self-care, including eating right, getting enough sleep, and regularly exercising\n- practicing self-compassion\n- doing fun and enjoyable activities\n- seeking social support from friends, family, and workmates\n- being aware of one’s mindset and being open to changing perspectives\n- reflecting on one’s profession\n- identifying and managing workplace stressors\n- improving coping skills such as communication and problem-solving skills\n- ensuring that work demands are manageable and reasonable\n- aiming for work-life balance\n\nPeople with burnout and those who think they are depressed may find it helpful to reach out to a mental health provider. A mental health professional can help provide a diagnosis and a treatment plan.\n\nA person with thoughts of self-harm, suicide, or death is having a mental health crisis. They may call 998 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for free and confidential emotional support.\n\nPeople who are uncomfortable speaking through a phone may text HOME to 741741 to connect with a volunteer Crisis Counselor at [Crisis Text Line](https:\/\/www.crisistextline.org\/) through text, chat, or WhatsApp.\n\nThe following are frequently asked questions about depression and burnout.\n\nIs burnout worse than depression?\n\nBurnout and depression have some similar symptoms, but burnout tends to revolve around work stressors. In contrast, depression affects different areas of a person’s life.\n\nCan you have depression and burnout at the same time?\n\nA [2019 review](https:\/\/www.frontiersin.org\/articles\/10.3389\/fpsyg.2019.00284\/full#main-content) found that burnout may be a risk factor for depression, meaning that chronic, unresolved burnout may lead to depression.\n\nHowever, burnout and depression have [distinct symptoms](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK279286\/). Most burnout issues are work-related, while the negative thoughts and feelings of depression are about all areas of life.\n\nDepression and burnout can cause similar physical and mental health problems, making it difficult for those affected to identify if they are experiencing depression or burnout.\n\nUnderstanding the differences can help people identify whether they should seek help and treatment.\n\nA person who thinks they need help for depression or burnout should speak with a mental health provider. Other resources, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and Crisis Text Line, can offer additional support.","meta_canonical":null}

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Meta Description	Burnout and depression share specific symptoms. Burnout symptoms tend to center around work, while depression affects all areas of life. Read more here.
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Boilerpipe Text	Burnout and depression share specific symptoms and can be challenging to tell apart. Burnout symptoms tend to center around work, while depression affects all areas of life. Both burnout and depression can negatively impact a person’s mental well-being and share similar symptoms, but they are not the same. Because the two are similar, people may mistake burnout for depression and vice versa. This may lead to a delay in treatment. This article explores the similarities and differences between burnout and depression and their symptoms, causes, and treatment. It also answers commonly asked questions about both conditions. People commonly refer to depression and burnout interchangeably to describe feelings of exhaustion, emptiness, and inability to cope. Burnout may mirror symptoms of depression , but burnout is not a medical condition . The World Health Organization (WHO) includes burnout in the 11th Revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11). WHO defines it as an occupational phenomenon. Burnout commonly occurs in service-oriented or “helping” professionals and those who persistently experience high stress levels, including: social workers teachers correctional officers doctors nurses therapists trauma counselors In contrast, depression or major depressive disorder (MDD) is a clinical diagnosis. It affects how a person thinks, behaves, and feels and can lead to a range of emotional and physical problems. A 2017 study suggests that the two appear to share a common biological basis. Several studies also show a positive correlation between burnout and depressive symptoms. This may mean there is an overlap between burnout and depression or that burnout is a potential risk factor for developing depression. However, a 2020 study found that their symptoms are distinct. A critical difference between the two that can help people and professionals distinguish them is that burnout is situation-specific and often related to a person’s working environment. In contrast, depression can show up regardless of a person’s circumstances and environment. Burnout and depression may have similar symptoms , including extreme exhaustion and feeling down. However, the two conditions also have important differences. Depression To receive a diagnosis of depression, a person must have at least five of the following symptoms for at least 2 weeks , and they must cause a change in a person’s previous level of functioning: depressed mood loss of pleasure or interest in activities previously enjoyed increased fatigue or loss of energy changes in appetite presence of slowed movements or speech or an increase in purposeless activity feelings of worthlessness and guilt suicidal thoughts difficulty concentrating, thinking, or making decisions Burnout Exhaustion: This may include feeling drained, emotionally exhausted, tired, down, unable to cope, and not having enough energy. Physical symptoms include pain and gastrointestinal distress. Alienation from activities: People may become cynical about their work and colleagues and increasingly distance themselves from them. They may also feel numb about their work. Reduced performance: People feel negative about their duties and tasks, causing them to become listless, lack creativity, and have difficulty concentrating. There is also a link between burnout and reduced work performance, which may manifest as: withdrawal absenteeism desire to leave the job The following outlines the causes of depression and burnout. Depression Depression occurs as a response to genetic, environmental, and psychosocial factors. These include: abnormalities in neurotransmitters severe early stress hormonal abnormalities experience of uncontrollable life events certain personality traits Burnout Burnout is typically a response to a stressful workplace but can result from other stressors , such as taking care of an ill family member. It results from performing at a high level until an overburdening workload or extreme or prolonged physical or mental exertion takes its toll. Aside from the workplace, other factors may affect burnout. These include: learned helplessness environmental factors personality factors, such as emotional instability and proneness to anxiety The following outlines the treatment of depression and burnout. Depression Depression is treatable, and the treatment depends on the type of depression. Treatments such as medications, psychotherapy, and lifestyle modifications can help manage depression. Some of the medications approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of MDD include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). However, a 2019 study suggests that up to two-thirds of people with depression do not respond to initial treatment with antidepressants. A 2020 review of studies found that CBT is an effective treatment for depression, and combined therapy consisting of medications and CBT is significantly more effective than using medications alone. Meanwhile, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) was the most effective treatment for severe major depression. Below are indications for ECT: acute suicidality severe depression during pregnancy refusal to eat or drink severe psychosis catatonia Burnout restore the balance between effort and rest facilitate recovery from chronic stress improve coping skills The following may help people dealing with burnout: performing self-care, including eating right, getting enough sleep, and regularly exercising practicing self-compassion doing fun and enjoyable activities seeking social support from friends, family, and workmates being aware of one’s mindset and being open to changing perspectives reflecting on one’s profession identifying and managing workplace stressors improving coping skills such as communication and problem-solving skills ensuring that work demands are manageable and reasonable aiming for work-life balance People with burnout and those who think they are depressed may find it helpful to reach out to a mental health provider. A mental health professional can help provide a diagnosis and a treatment plan. A person with thoughts of self-harm, suicide, or death is having a mental health crisis. They may call 998 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for free and confidential emotional support. People who are uncomfortable speaking through a phone may text HOME to 741741 to connect with a volunteer Crisis Counselor at Crisis Text Line through text, chat, or WhatsApp. The following are frequently asked questions about depression and burnout. Is burnout worse than depression? Burnout and depression have some similar symptoms, but burnout tends to revolve around work stressors. In contrast, depression affects different areas of a person’s life. Can you have depression and burnout at the same time? A 2019 review found that burnout may be a risk factor for depression, meaning that chronic, unresolved burnout may lead to depression. However, burnout and depression have distinct symptoms . Most burnout issues are work-related, while the negative thoughts and feelings of depression are about all areas of life. Depression and burnout can cause similar physical and mental health problems, making it difficult for those affected to identify if they are experiencing depression or burnout. Understanding the differences can help people identify whether they should seek help and treatment. A person who thinks they need help for depression or burnout should speak with a mental health provider. Other resources, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and Crisis Text Line, can offer additional support.
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[Management Overview](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320502) - ### Prognosis Prognosis #### Related Articles - [Outlook Overview](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/does-depression-go-away) - [Is It Curable?](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/can-you-cure-depression) - [Signs of Worsening](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/depression-getting-worse) - [Statistics](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/depression-statistics) - [States & Severity](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/stages-of-depression) - ### Related Conditions Related Conditions #### Related Articles - [Fatigue](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/depression-vs-laziness) - [Sadness](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/314418) - [Anxiety](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/anxiety-vs-depression) - [Autism](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/autistic-depression) - [Erectile Dysfunction](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/can-depression-cause-erectile-dysfunction) - [Grief](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/depression-vs-grief) - [Chronic Illness](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/chronic-illness-and-depression) - ### Symptoms Symptoms #### Related Articles - [Symptoms Overview](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326769) - [Low Serotonin](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/serotonin-deficiency) - [Signs of Relapse](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320269) - [Hidden Signs](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325513) - [What It Feels Like](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/314071) - [Depressive Episode](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322495) - [Emotional Distress](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/emotional-distress) - [Tiredness](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322264) - [Personal Hygiene](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/cant-shower-depression) - [Weight Changes](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/depression-weight-gain) - [Brain Fog](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/brain-fog-and-depression) - [Impact on Brain](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/howd-does-depression-affect-the-brain) - [Appetite Changes](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/depression-food-doesnt-taste-good) - [Headache](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/depression-headaches) - [Impact on Body](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322395) - [Apathy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/apathy-depression) - [Hyperfixation](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/hyperfixation-and-depression) - [Existential Crisis](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/327244) - [Lethargy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/lethargy) - ### Treatment Treatment #### Related Articles - [Treatment Overview](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/depression-treatment) - [Antidepressants](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/248320) - [Wellbutrin](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-wellbutrin) - [Cymbalta](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/cymbalta) - [SSRI vs. SNRI](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/ssri-vs-snri) - [Mirtazapine](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/mirtazapine-oral-tablet) - [Amitriptyline](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/amitriptyline-oral-tablet) - [Stopping Antidepressants](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/benefits-of-stopping-antidepressants) - [Prozac](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-prozac) - [Celexa](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/celexa) - [Effexor XR](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326678) - [Zoloft](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325632) - [Paxil](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325996) - [Trintellix](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/trintellix) - [Lexapro](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-lexapro) - [Antidepressant Pros and Cons](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/pros-and-cons-of-antidepressants) - [Trazodone](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-trazodone-tablet) - [SNRIs](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/snri) - [Zoloft](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-zoloft) - [Auvelity](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-auvelity) - [Spravato](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326038) - [Switching Antidepressants](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/switching-antidepressants) - [Tricyclic Antidepressants](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/tricyclic-antidepressants) - [Shock Therapy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/shock-therapy-for-depression) - [Treatment Centers](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/rehab-for-depression) - [Therapist vs. Psychologist](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/therapist-vs-psychologist-for-depression) - [Aplenzin](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326372) - [Brain Stimulation Therapy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/brain-stimulation-therapy) - [Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/transcranial-magnetic-stimulation) - [Therapy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/depression-therapy) - [Ketamine](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/is-ketamine-addictive-when-used-for-depression) - ### Types Types #### Related Articles - [Types Overview](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/327429) - [Relationship](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/relationship-depression) - [Nostalgic](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/nostalgic-depression) - [Agitated](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320370) - [Major vs. Persistent](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/major-depressive-disorder-vs-persistent-depressive-disorder) - [CNS](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/314790) - [Pseudodementia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/pseudodementia) - [Vs. Burnout](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/burnout-vs-depression) - [Situational vs. Clinical](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/314698) - [Mild](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321385) - [Existential](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/existential-depression) - [Depression at Night](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/depression-at-night) - [Spiritual](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/spiritual-depression) - [Breakthrough](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/breakthrough-depression) - [Work](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/work-depression) - [Catatonic](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322199) - [High-Functioning](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/high-functioning-depression) - [Seasonal Affective Disorder](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/10306) - [Subsyndromal](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/subsyndromal-depression) - [Geriatric](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/geriatric-depression) - [Unipolar](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/unipolar-depression) - [Postpartum](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/237109) - [Treatment-Resistant](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/treatment-resistant-depression) - [Severe](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/severe-depression) # What to know about burnout vs. depression ![](https://i0.wp.com/post.medicalnewstoday.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2021/04/Kendra_Kubala_500x500_Med_Reviewer_Photos_v2.png?w=105&h=105) [Medically reviewed]() by [Kendra Kubala, PsyD]() — Written by [Rachel Ann Tee-Melegrito]() on February 28, 2023 - [Are they the same thing?](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/burnout-vs-depression#are-they-the-same-thing) - [Symptoms](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/burnout-vs-depression#symptoms) - [Causes](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/burnout-vs-depression#causes) - [Treatment](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/burnout-vs-depression#treatment) - [Support](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/burnout-vs-depression#support) - [FAQ](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/burnout-vs-depression#faq) - [Summary](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/burnout-vs-depression#summary) Burnout and depression share specific symptoms and can be challenging to tell apart. Burnout symptoms tend to center around work, while depression affects all areas of life. Both burnout and depression can negatively impact a person’s mental well-being and share similar symptoms, but they are not the same. Because the two are similar, people may mistake burnout for depression and vice versa. This may lead to a delay in treatment. This article explores the similarities and differences between burnout and depression and their symptoms, causes, and treatment. It also answers commonly asked questions about both conditions. ## [Are burnout and depression the same thing?]() ![A nurse sitting on a bench and experiencing burnout or depression -1](https://i0.wp.com/post.medicalnewstoday.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2023/02/burnout_vs_depression_what_to_know_1296x728_header-1024x575.jpg?w=1155&h=1528) [Share on Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.medicalnewstoday.com%2Farticles%2Fburnout-vs-depression&media=https%3A%2F%2Fpost.medicalnewstoday.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fsites%2F3%2F2023%2F02%2Fburnout_vs_depression_what_to_know_1296x728_header-1024x575.jpg&description=Burnout%20vs.%20depression%3A%20Symptoms%2C%20causes%2C%20and%20treatment "Share on Pinterest") Kong Ding Chek/Getty Images People commonly refer to [depression](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/8933) and burnout interchangeably to describe feelings of exhaustion, emptiness, and inability to cope. Burnout may mirror [symptoms of depression](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326769), but burnout is [not a medical condition](https://www.who.int/news/item/28-05-2019-burn-out-an-occupational-phenomenon-international-classification-of-diseases). The World Health Organization (WHO) includes burnout in the 11th Revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11). WHO defines it as an occupational phenomenon. The [American Psychiatric Association (APA)](https://ajp.psychiatryonline.org/doi/10.1176/appi.ajp.2020.19090901) considers burnout an experience rather than a diagnosis. It is a [result](https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00284/full#main-content) of prolonged interpersonal stressors at work. Burnout [commonly occurs](https://dictionary.apa.org/burnout) in service-oriented or “helping” professionals and those who persistently experience high stress levels, including: - social workers - teachers - correctional officers - doctors - nurses - therapists - trauma counselors In contrast, depression or major depressive disorder (MDD) is a clinical diagnosis. It affects how a person thinks, behaves, and feels and can lead to a range of emotional and physical problems. A [2017 study](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0022399916304949) suggests that the two appear to share a common biological basis. Several studies also show a [positive correlation](https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00284/full#main-content) between burnout and depressive symptoms. This may mean there is an overlap between burnout and depression or that burnout is a potential risk factor for developing depression. However, a [2020 study](https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2774460) found that their symptoms are distinct. A [critical difference](https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00284/full#main-content) between the two that can help people and professionals distinguish them is that burnout is situation-specific and often related to a person’s working environment. In contrast, depression can show up regardless of a person’s circumstances and environment. ## [Symptoms]() Burnout and depression may have [similar symptoms](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279286/), including extreme exhaustion and feeling down. However, the two conditions also have important differences. ### Depression To receive a diagnosis of depression, a person must have at least five of the following symptoms for [at least 2 weeks](https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/depression/what-is-depression), and they must cause a change in a person’s previous level of functioning: - depressed mood - loss of pleasure or interest in activities previously enjoyed - increased fatigue or loss of energy - changes in appetite - presence of slowed movements or speech or an increase in purposeless activity - feelings of worthlessness and guilt - suicidal thoughts - difficulty concentrating, thinking, or making decisions [Learn more about the effects of depression on the body](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322395). ### Burnout Burnout has [three main](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279286/) symptoms: - Exhaustion: This may include feeling drained, emotionally exhausted, tired, down, unable to cope, and not having enough energy. Physical symptoms include pain and gastrointestinal distress. - Alienation from activities: People may become cynical about their work and colleagues and increasingly distance themselves from them. They may also feel numb about their work. - Reduced performance: People feel negative about their duties and tasks, causing them to become listless, lack creativity, and have difficulty concentrating. There is also a link between burnout and reduced work performance, which may [manifest](https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00284/full#main-content) as: - withdrawal - absenteeism - desire to leave the job [Read more about burnout symptoms here](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/burnout-symptoms). ## [Causes]() The following outlines the causes of depression and burnout. ### Depression Depression [occurs](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559078/) as a response to genetic, environmental, and psychosocial factors. These include: - abnormalities in [neurotransmitters](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326649) - severe early stress - hormonal abnormalities - experience of uncontrollable life events - certain personality traits ### Burnout Burnout is typically a response to a stressful workplace but can result from [other stressors](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279286/), such as taking care of an ill family member. It [results from](https://dictionary.apa.org/burnout) performing at a high level until an overburdening workload or extreme or prolonged physical or mental exertion takes its toll. Aside from the workplace, [other factors](https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00284/full#main-content) may affect burnout. These include: - [learned helplessness](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325355) - environmental factors - personality factors, such as emotional instability and proneness to [anxiety](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323454) ## [Treatment]() The following outlines the treatment of depression and burnout. ### Depression Depression is treatable, and the treatment depends on the type of depression. Treatments such as medications, psychotherapy, and lifestyle modifications can help manage depression. Some of the medications approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of MDD include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and [serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/snri) (SNRIs). However, a 2019 study suggests that [up to two-thirds](https://bmcpsychiatry.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12888-019-2222-4) of people with depression do not respond to initial treatment with antidepressants. [Cognitive behavioral therapy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/296579) (CBT) and interpersonal therapy are forms of [psychotherapy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/156433) that medical professionals commonly use to treat depression. A [2020 review of studies](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7001356/) found that CBT is an effective treatment for depression, and combined therapy consisting of medications and CBT is significantly more effective than using medications alone. Meanwhile, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) was the most effective treatment for severe major depression. Below are [indications](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559078/) for ECT: - acute suicidality - severe depression during pregnancy - refusal to eat or drink - severe [psychosis](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/248159) - catatonia ### Burnout Treatments for burnout [all aim to](https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/1359432X.2021.1948400): - restore the balance between effort and rest - facilitate recovery from chronic stress - improve coping skills The following [may help](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5901844/) people dealing with burnout: - performing self-care, including eating right, getting enough sleep, and regularly exercising - practicing self-compassion - doing fun and enjoyable activities - seeking social support from friends, family, and workmates - being aware of one’s mindset and being open to changing perspectives - reflecting on one’s profession - identifying and managing workplace stressors - improving coping skills such as communication and problem-solving skills - ensuring that work demands are manageable and reasonable - aiming for work-life balance ## [Where to find support]() People with burnout and those who think they are depressed may find it helpful to reach out to a mental health provider. A mental health professional can help provide a diagnosis and a treatment plan. A person with thoughts of self-harm, suicide, or death is having a mental health crisis. They may call 998 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for free and confidential emotional support. People who are uncomfortable speaking through a phone may text HOME to 741741 to connect with a volunteer Crisis Counselor at [Crisis Text Line](https://www.crisistextline.org/) through text, chat, or WhatsApp. ## [Frequently asked questions]() The following are frequently asked questions about depression and burnout. ### Is burnout worse than depression? Burnout and depression have some similar symptoms, but burnout tends to revolve around work stressors. In contrast, depression affects different areas of a person’s life. ### Can you have depression and burnout at the same time? A [2019 review](https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00284/full#main-content) found that burnout may be a risk factor for depression, meaning that chronic, unresolved burnout may lead to depression. However, burnout and depression have [distinct symptoms](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279286/). Most burnout issues are work-related, while the negative thoughts and feelings of depression are about all areas of life. ## [Summary]() Depression and burnout can cause similar physical and mental health problems, making it difficult for those affected to identify if they are experiencing depression or burnout. Understanding the differences can help people identify whether they should seek help and treatment. A person who thinks they need help for depression or burnout should speak with a mental health provider. Other resources, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and Crisis Text Line, can offer additional support. - [Depression](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/categories/depression) - [Mental Health](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/categories/mental-health) - [Anxiety / Stress](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/categories/anxiety) - [Psychology / Psychiatry](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/categories/psychology-psychiatry) ### How we reviewed this article: Sources Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We only use quality, credible sources to ensure content accuracy and integrity. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our [editorial policy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/process). - APA dictionary of psychology. (n.d.). <https://dictionary.apa.org/burnout> - Bakusic, J., et al. (2017). Stress, burnout and depression: A systematic review on DNA methylation mechanisms. <https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0022399916304949> - Bains, N., et al. (2022). Major depressive disorder. <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559078/> - Burn-out an “occupational phenomenon”: International classification of diseases. (2019). <https://www.who.int/news/item/28-05-2019-burn-out-an-occupational-phenomenon-international-classification-of-diseases> - Depression: What is burnout? (2020). <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279286/> - Jaffe, D., et al. (2019). The humanistic and economic burden of treatment-resistant depression in Europe: A cross-sectional study. <https://bmcpsychiatry.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12888-019-2222-4> - Koutsimani, P., et al. (2019). The relationship between burnout, depression, and anxiety: A systematic review and meta-analysis. <https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00284/full#main-content> - Fischer, R., et al. (2020). Association of burnout with depression and anxiety in critical care clinicians in Brazil. <https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2774460> - Gautam, M., et al. (2020). Cognitive behavioral therapy for depression. <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7001356/> - Schonfeld, I., et al. (2016). Burnout and depression: Two entities or one. <https://academicworks.cuny.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1276&context=gc_pubs> - Stoewen, D. (2018). Burnout: Prescription for a happier healthier you. <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5901844/> - Summers, R., et al. (2020). Well-being, burnout, and depression among North American psychiatrists: The state of our profession. <https://ajp.psychiatryonline.org/doi/10.1176/appi.ajp.2020.19090901> - Torres, F. (2020). What is depression? <https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/depression/what-is-depression> - van Dam, A., et al. (2021). A clinical perspective on burnout: Diagnosis, classification, and treatment of clinical burnout. <https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/1359432X.2021.1948400> Share this article ![](https://i0.wp.com/post.medicalnewstoday.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2021/04/Kendra_Kubala_500x500_Med_Reviewer_Photos_v2.png?w=105&h=105) [Medically reviewed]() by [Kendra Kubala, PsyD]() — Written by [Rachel Ann Tee-Melegrito]() on February 28, 2023 ## Latest news - [9 steps to improve heart health, per new dietary guidance from AHA](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/9-steps-improve-heart-health-diet-guidance-aha) - [AI model can accurately predict liver cancer risk, study suggests](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/ai-model-accurately-predict-liver-cancer-risk) - [AI-powered stroke tool linked to improved patient outcomes in large clinical trial](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/ai-powered-stroke-tool-linked-improved-patient-outcomes-large-clinical-trial) - [Eating same meals on repeat, and more at weekends may help you lose more weight](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/eating-same-meals-repeat-more-weekends-may-help-lose-more-weight) - [Cooking at least one meal at home weekly may cut dementia risk by up to 67%](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/cooking-at-least-one-meal-at-home-weekly-may-cut-dementia-risk) ### Related Coverage - [Depression statistics](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/depression-statistics?utm_source=ReadNext) Medically reviewed by [Francis Kuehnle, MSN, RN-BC](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/reviewers) [Depression affects people of different ages from all sorts of socioeconomic backgrounds. 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Readable Markdown	Burnout and depression share specific symptoms and can be challenging to tell apart. Burnout symptoms tend to center around work, while depression affects all areas of life. Both burnout and depression can negatively impact a person’s mental well-being and share similar symptoms, but they are not the same. Because the two are similar, people may mistake burnout for depression and vice versa. This may lead to a delay in treatment. This article explores the similarities and differences between burnout and depression and their symptoms, causes, and treatment. It also answers commonly asked questions about both conditions. People commonly refer to [depression](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/8933) and burnout interchangeably to describe feelings of exhaustion, emptiness, and inability to cope. Burnout may mirror [symptoms of depression](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326769), but burnout is [not a medical condition](https://www.who.int/news/item/28-05-2019-burn-out-an-occupational-phenomenon-international-classification-of-diseases). The World Health Organization (WHO) includes burnout in the 11th Revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11). WHO defines it as an occupational phenomenon. Burnout [commonly occurs](https://dictionary.apa.org/burnout) in service-oriented or “helping” professionals and those who persistently experience high stress levels, including: - social workers - teachers - correctional officers - doctors - nurses - therapists - trauma counselors In contrast, depression or major depressive disorder (MDD) is a clinical diagnosis. It affects how a person thinks, behaves, and feels and can lead to a range of emotional and physical problems. A [2017 study](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0022399916304949) suggests that the two appear to share a common biological basis. Several studies also show a [positive correlation](https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00284/full#main-content) between burnout and depressive symptoms. This may mean there is an overlap between burnout and depression or that burnout is a potential risk factor for developing depression. However, a [2020 study](https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2774460) found that their symptoms are distinct. A [critical difference](https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00284/full#main-content) between the two that can help people and professionals distinguish them is that burnout is situation-specific and often related to a person’s working environment. In contrast, depression can show up regardless of a person’s circumstances and environment. Burnout and depression may have [similar symptoms](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279286/), including extreme exhaustion and feeling down. However, the two conditions also have important differences. Depression To receive a diagnosis of depression, a person must have at least five of the following symptoms for [at least 2 weeks](https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/depression/what-is-depression), and they must cause a change in a person’s previous level of functioning: - depressed mood - loss of pleasure or interest in activities previously enjoyed - increased fatigue or loss of energy - changes in appetite - presence of slowed movements or speech or an increase in purposeless activity - feelings of worthlessness and guilt - suicidal thoughts - difficulty concentrating, thinking, or making decisions Burnout - Exhaustion: This may include feeling drained, emotionally exhausted, tired, down, unable to cope, and not having enough energy. Physical symptoms include pain and gastrointestinal distress. - Alienation from activities: People may become cynical about their work and colleagues and increasingly distance themselves from them. They may also feel numb about their work. - Reduced performance: People feel negative about their duties and tasks, causing them to become listless, lack creativity, and have difficulty concentrating. There is also a link between burnout and reduced work performance, which may [manifest](https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00284/full#main-content) as: - withdrawal - absenteeism - desire to leave the job The following outlines the causes of depression and burnout. Depression Depression [occurs](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559078/) as a response to genetic, environmental, and psychosocial factors. These include: - abnormalities in [neurotransmitters](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326649) - severe early stress - hormonal abnormalities - experience of uncontrollable life events - certain personality traits Burnout Burnout is typically a response to a stressful workplace but can result from [other stressors](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279286/), such as taking care of an ill family member. It [results from](https://dictionary.apa.org/burnout) performing at a high level until an overburdening workload or extreme or prolonged physical or mental exertion takes its toll. Aside from the workplace, [other factors](https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00284/full#main-content) may affect burnout. These include: - [learned helplessness](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325355) - environmental factors - personality factors, such as emotional instability and proneness to [anxiety](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323454) The following outlines the treatment of depression and burnout. Depression Depression is treatable, and the treatment depends on the type of depression. Treatments such as medications, psychotherapy, and lifestyle modifications can help manage depression. Some of the medications approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of MDD include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and [serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/snri) (SNRIs). However, a 2019 study suggests that [up to two-thirds](https://bmcpsychiatry.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12888-019-2222-4) of people with depression do not respond to initial treatment with antidepressants. A [2020 review of studies](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7001356/) found that CBT is an effective treatment for depression, and combined therapy consisting of medications and CBT is significantly more effective than using medications alone. Meanwhile, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) was the most effective treatment for severe major depression. Below are [indications](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559078/) for ECT: - acute suicidality - severe depression during pregnancy - refusal to eat or drink - severe [psychosis](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/248159) - catatonia Burnout - restore the balance between effort and rest - facilitate recovery from chronic stress - improve coping skills The following [may help](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5901844/) people dealing with burnout: - performing self-care, including eating right, getting enough sleep, and regularly exercising - practicing self-compassion - doing fun and enjoyable activities - seeking social support from friends, family, and workmates - being aware of one’s mindset and being open to changing perspectives - reflecting on one’s profession - identifying and managing workplace stressors - improving coping skills such as communication and problem-solving skills - ensuring that work demands are manageable and reasonable - aiming for work-life balance People with burnout and those who think they are depressed may find it helpful to reach out to a mental health provider. A mental health professional can help provide a diagnosis and a treatment plan. A person with thoughts of self-harm, suicide, or death is having a mental health crisis. They may call 998 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for free and confidential emotional support. People who are uncomfortable speaking through a phone may text HOME to 741741 to connect with a volunteer Crisis Counselor at [Crisis Text Line](https://www.crisistextline.org/) through text, chat, or WhatsApp. The following are frequently asked questions about depression and burnout. Is burnout worse than depression? Burnout and depression have some similar symptoms, but burnout tends to revolve around work stressors. In contrast, depression affects different areas of a person’s life. Can you have depression and burnout at the same time? A [2019 review](https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00284/full#main-content) found that burnout may be a risk factor for depression, meaning that chronic, unresolved burnout may lead to depression. However, burnout and depression have [distinct symptoms](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279286/). Most burnout issues are work-related, while the negative thoughts and feelings of depression are about all areas of life. Depression and burnout can cause similar physical and mental health problems, making it difficult for those affected to identify if they are experiencing depression or burnout. Understanding the differences can help people identify whether they should seek help and treatment. A person who thinks they need help for depression or burnout should speak with a mental health provider. Other resources, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and Crisis Text Line, can offer additional support.
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