Constantly exhausted, empty inside, lacking motivation: many people experience these symptoms and ask themselves - have I Burnout or a Depression? The two conditions are similar, even overlap. But they have different causes, dynamics and require different forms of support. In this article you will get a well-founded Comparison of Burnout and depression - including definitions, symptoms, causes and practical examples. We will also show you how to recognize whether you are affected - and how to take the first steps in the right direction.
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Studies show that burnout and depression Distinguish between neurological and symptomatic (e.g. Maslach et al., 2001; Bianchi et al., 2015):
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines burnout as a Occupational phenomenonnot a disease - but a serious condition.
The German Depression Aid warns, however, against underestimating burnout: Untreated exhaustion can develop into depression.
How can you recognize the difference between burnout and depression in everyday life? Here is a brief comparison:
| Symptom | Burnout | Depression |
|---|---|---|
| Exhaustion | high, mostly work-related | very high, regardless of context |
| Loss of interest | limited to certain areas | almost all areas of life |
| Sleep disorders | often, through circling thoughts | Frequent, often with early awakenings |
| Self-esteem | is often retained | significantly reduced |
| Guilt | Rarely pronounced | Frequent and intensive |
| Suicidal thoughts | Rather rare | possible, partly massive |
Conclusion: While burnout is often caused by external stress, depression is more deeply rooted and more comprehensive. However, burnout can turn into depression if no change is made.
Lisa has been working under high pressure for years, loves her job - but feels increasingly drained. She sleeps badly, is irritable and withdraws. She no longer enjoys her tasks, but doesn't think badly of herself. Diagnosis: Burnout with risk of developing depression.
Markus has felt empty for months. Even private hobbies no longer give him anything. He hardly sleeps, has Guilt and sometimes thinks it would be better if he were no longer there. Diagnosis: moderate depression.
Important: The boundaries are fluid - both need support, but at different levels.
In both cases, it is important to react early before symptoms become entrenched.
In the video, expert Christina Hommelsheim gives you 5 tips to combat stress.
"Burnout is often a wake-up call - a signal that you have lost yourself. If you start to listen to your inner boundaries again, this can lead to real transformation."
Walter Hommelsheim, Coach & Trainer at Greator Life Coach
Studies show that burnout and depression exhibit different neuronal patterns (e.g. Maslach et al., 2001; Bianchi et al., 2015). While burnout correlates strongly with occupational exhaustion, depression shows a broader psychological impairment.
The World Health Organization (WHO) clearly defines burnout as a work-related phenomenon - not an illness, but in need of treatment.
The German Depression Aid also warns against underestimating burnout, as many depressive developments begin there.
Whether burnout or depression - you don't have to go through it alone. The first step is: Understand what exactly is going on with you. Then you can take targeted action.
If you feel that you are on the way to burnout or recognize yourself in it, our free burnout test.
He gives you Clarity about your current condition.
