Every man has felt at least once in his life that “everything is too much,” that his energy is at zero, and that doing anything feels pointless. It’s important to understand, however, that sometimes it’s just burnout, and other times it’s depression. The difference is critical because one can be addressed by adjusting your lifestyle, while the other requires professional help.
What Burnout Is and How It Manifests
Burnout is emotional and mental exhaustion. It doesn’t necessarily have to be related to work, though workplace stress is often a major trigger. You can also burn out while caring for a sick family member, constantly looking after children, or going through major life changes.
Typical signs of burnout:
- loss of motivation and interest in work;
- irritability and cynicism;
- mental fatigue;
- sleep problems;
- daydreaming about “escaping” work;
- general malaise and tiredness.
Burnout is most common among men who struggle to set boundaries: they take on too many tasks, stay late at work, and try to do everything at home. As a result, there’s no time for sports, hobbies, or simple rest.
What Depression Is
Depression is a state in which a low mood and a sense of hopelessness do not go away. People lose interest in usual activities, tend to isolate themselves, and suffer from constant fatigue and guilt.
Symptoms of depression:
- low energy and motivation;
- feelings of emptiness and guilt;
- irritability, anxiety, restlessness;
- difficulty concentrating and making decisions;
- physical pains without a clear cause;
- thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
Burnout vs. Depression: Key Differences
Symptom intensity:
With depression, everyday tasks become impossible, while with burnout, a person can still work, albeit with difficulty.
Causes:
Burnout is usually situational – linked to specific stressors. Depression can occur suddenly, sometimes without an obvious reason.
Treatment:
Burnout can be addressed with therapy, rest, and lifestyle changes. Depression requires a comprehensive approach: therapy, medication, and sometimes electroconvulsive therapy.
Diagnosis:
Depression is a medical diagnosis with clear criteria. Burnout is a subjective state and does not have official diagnostic criteria.
When Burnout Can Turn into Depression
Ignoring burnout is dangerous: over time, it can trigger depressive symptoms – fatigue, irritability, feelings of guilt. It is also possible to have burnout and depression simultaneously, where one condition amplifies the other.
What You Can Do Yourself
Keep a journal – record your thoughts and feelings, and analyze negative thinking patterns.
Focus on one task – reduces mental chaos and stress.
Reduce stress – sleep well, exercise, eat properly.
Be kind to yourself – recognize your limits, don’t try to be a superhero.
Practice yoga or physical exercise – helps process emotions through the body.
Seek support – talking with friends and family helps you feel connected.
Review your tasks – eliminate what is unhelpful, free time for yourself.
Meditation – simple breathing exercises for a few minutes daily help you stay present.
Learn from others – stories of people who overcame challenges inspire and build confidence.
When to See a Doctor
If you notice signs of depression, especially thoughts of self-harm, don’t delay seeing a psychiatrist. For burnout, support from a therapist can be helpful, even if there are no severe symptoms.
