What is burnout?
The WHO includes burnout in its International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) as an occupational phenomenon, not a medical condition. It is defined as resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed, and has three features:
- Exhaustion: feelings of energy depletion.
- Mental distance from your job: cynicism or negativity about work.
- Reduced professional efficacy: feeling less effective at work.
Strictly, the WHO term refers to work. Similar exhaustion can happen with caregiving, studying or other long-term pressures.
What is depression?
Depression affects about 5% of adults worldwide, according to the WHO. It involves a low or irritable mood, or a loss of pleasure or interest in activities, for most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks, along with other symptoms such as:
- poor concentration;
- feelings of excessive guilt or low self-worth;
- hopelessness about the future;
- thoughts about dying or suicide;
- disrupted sleep;
- changes in appetite or weight;
- feeling very tired or low in energy.
How do they differ?
| Burnout | Depression | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | Occupational phenomenon | Medical condition |
| Main driver | Chronic, unmanaged work stress | Many causes: biological, psychological and social |
| Where it shows | Mainly related to work | Affects all areas of life |
| Time off | Often helps noticeably | Often doesn't lift mood on its own |
| Pleasure in other activities | Often still present outside work | Often reduced across most activities |
| Self-worth | Feeling ineffective at work | Broader guilt, worthlessness or hopelessness |
These are general patterns, not a diagnosis. Long-term burnout can lead to depression, and the two often coexist. A doctor can help untangle them.
Other things a doctor may check
Exhaustion and low mood can also be linked to:
- thyroid problems or anaemia;
- poor sleep or sleep apnoea;
- alcohol or substance use;
- side effects of some medicines;
- other long-term health conditions.
That's one reason a check-up is worthwhile.
Practical first steps
The WHO suggests self-care steps that can help many people, alongside professional support where needed:
- Keep doing activities you used to enjoy, even in small amounts.
- Stay connected with friends and family.
- Exercise regularly, even a short walk.
- Keep regular eating and sleeping habits.
- Avoid or cut down on alcohol and drugs.
- Talk to someone you trust about how you feel.
For burnout specifically, it can also help to look at workload, boundaries and recovery time, and to speak to your manager or an employee wellness programme if available.
How is depression treated?
Depression is treatable. According to the WHO, psychological treatments (talking therapies) are often the first option. Antidepressant medicines may be added for moderate to severe depression. Treatment is tailored to the person, and your doctor can help you choose.
When to see a doctor
Speak to a doctor if:
- low mood, loss of interest or exhaustion has lasted more than two weeks;
- it's affecting your work, relationships or daily life;
- you're using alcohol or other substances to cope;
- self-care steps haven't helped.
Get help now
If you are thinking about harming yourself or ending your life, or are worried about someone else:
- contact emergency services on 10177 or 112, or go to your nearest emergency unit;
- or contact a crisis line;
- tell someone you trust and don't stay alone.
The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) Suicide Crisis Helpline is 0800 567 567.
Frequently asked questions
Is burnout a medical diagnosis?
According to the WHO, burnout is an occupational phenomenon, not a medical condition. Its effects on health are still real and worth discussing with a doctor.
Can burnout turn into depression?
Long-term unmanaged stress can contribute to depression, and the two often overlap.
Will a holiday fix it?
Rest often helps burnout. If your mood doesn't improve after time off, or you feel low in all areas of life, speak to a doctor.
Do I need medication for depression?
Not always. Talking therapies are often the first treatment. Medicines may help for moderate to severe depression. This is a decision to make with your doctor.
References
- World Health Organization. Burn-out an "occupational phenomenon": International Classification of Diseases. https://www.who.int/standards/classifications/frequently-asked-questions/burn-out-an-occupational-phenomenon
- World Health Organization. Depressive disorder (depression) fact sheet. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/depression
This article is for general educational purposes only, like a health newsletter. It is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor and patient relationship. Please speak to your own doctor about your situation. In an emergency, call 10177 or 112, or go to your nearest emergency unit.