We all have moments when life feels overwhelming. Maybe you’re exhausted after work, dreading the next day, or feeling like you have nothing left to give. These feelings are often labeled as burnout. But sometimes, what feels like burnout could actually be something more serious—like depression.
At Foothills Psychiatric Services in Mesa, Arizona, we help individuals understand the root of what they’re going through. Here’s how to tell the difference between burnout and clinical depression, and why it matters.
What Is Burnout?
Burnout is a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress—often related to work, caregiving, or life imbalance. It can leave you feeling drained, cynical, and unmotivated.
Common signs of burnout:
- Trouble sleeping
- Feeling overwhelmed but still functioning
- Lack of motivation or energy
- Frustration or irritability
- Detachment from responsibilities
Burnout usually improves with rest, lifestyle adjustments, or taking a break.
What Is Depression?
Depression is a mental health condition that affects your mood, thoughts, and daily functioning. Unlike burnout, depression is not just about stress—it’s a clinical disorder that often requires therapeutic or medical support.
Signs that it may be depression:
- Persistent sadness or hopelessness
- Loss of interest in things you used to enjoy
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Feeling worthless or guilty
- Difficulty concentrating
- Thoughts of self-harm or not wanting to live
Depression can happen even when life seems “fine” on the outside.
When to Seek Help
If rest isn’t helping or your symptoms are lasting more than two weeks, it may be time to talk to a mental health professional. You don’t have to wait for a crisis to ask for support.
How Foothills Psychiatric Services Can Help
Located in Mesa, Arizona, our compassionate team of board-certified providers offers psychiatric evaluations, therapy, and medication management. Whether you’re experiencing burnout, depression, or aren’t sure what’s going on, we’re here to listen and help you move forward.
You are not alone. You are not weak. You are human.
Reach out to Foothills Psychiatric Services today to begin your path toward clarity, balance, and better mental health.
