The Difference Between Stress and Burnout: Which One Are You Experiencing? | Safe and Sound

In modern life, psychological problems are becoming increasingly common. Many people often confuse stress and burnout, two negative psychological states that share many similarities but also have significant differences. Clearly distinguishing between stress and burnout not only helps you accurately identify your condition but also creates opportunities to seek support from appropriate mental health professionals.

Ngo Thi Sang | Master of Educational Psychology – Applied to Safe and Sound Mental Health Care

Institute of Applied Medical Technology

1. What is stress?

What is stress?

Stress is a natural bodily response to demands or pressures from the environment. Stress can stem from work, family, studies, or social relationships. Psychologists say it's usually short-term and can disappear once the source of the stress is resolved.

Signs of stress:

- Psychologically : Anxiety, irritability, feelings of being overwhelmed by pressure.

- Physical symptoms : Headaches, rapid heartbeat, difficulty sleeping, or loss of appetite.

- In terms of behavior : Overworking, avoiding problems, or resorting to unhealthy behaviors such as drinking alcohol or smoking or using addictive substances.

However, if stress is prolonged and left unresolved, it can lead to more serious consequences, including burnout .

2. What is burnout?

Burnout , or exhaustion syndrome, is a state of overall fatigue affecting the body, emotions, and mind. Psychologists say it results from prolonged exposure to pressure without adequate relief or support. Burnout is often work-related, but it can also occur in personal life.

Signs of burnout:

- Emotional fatigue : Feeling drained of energy, lacking motivation to work or socialize.

- Social distancing : Feelings of isolation, loss of trust in colleagues or those around you.

- Reduced performance : The ability to concentrate and complete tasks decreases significantly.

3. What is the difference between stress and burnout?

The difference between stress and burnout

Below is a table comparing the key differences between stress and burnout, according to psychologists at Safe and Sound:

Criteria	Stress	Burn - out
Reason	Pressure from specific requirements	The pressure is prolonged and cannot be relieved.
Time	Short term	Prolonged, accumulated over time
Affect	A feeling of being overwhelmed, yet still having hope of overcoming it.	A feeling of helplessness and disorientation.
Physical	Temporary fatigue, recovery is quick.	Extreme exhaustion can lead to chronic illnesses.

4. What problems are you experiencing?

To help you better identify stress or burnout, here are some self-assessment questions. Psychologists say these questions not only help you become more aware of your mental state but can also be the first step in determining whether you are experiencing burnout or simply temporary stress from pressure.

Do you often feel tired, even after resting?
Have you lost interest in work or activities that you used to enjoy?
Do you feel like you've lost the motivation to try?

If you answered "yes" to one or all of the questions above, you may be experiencing burnout rather than just ordinary stress. Signs such as persistent fatigue, loss of interest in work or favorite activities, and a lack of motivation to continue may indicate physical and mental exhaustion. In this case, seeking professional help is crucial for receiving timely and effective support.

5. Consequences of stress and burnout

According to psychologists, both stress and burnout can have serious consequences, affecting health, quality of life, and relationships if not addressed promptly.

5.1 Consequences of long-term stress

Consequences of long-term stress

When stress is prolonged, your body and mind are constantly under tension, leading to numerous health problems:

In terms of physical condition:

Cardiovascular disease: Stress increases blood pressure and heart rate, raising the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Digestive disorders: Including stomach pain, ulcers, and irritable bowel syndrome.
Immune system weakened: Prolonged stress makes the body more susceptible to illness and slows recovery.

From a psychological perspective:

Anxiety disorder: You constantly feel uneasy, restless, and find it difficult to relax.
Depression: Prolonged stress can lead to a loss of energy, a loss of interest, and persistent feelings of sadness.

Regarding behavior:

Easily angered, difficulty concentrating.
The tendency to abuse stimulants or eat uncontrollably.

5.2 Consequences of burnout

Psychologists share that burnout is a state of both physical and mental exhaustion, with more serious consequences if left untreated:

Regarding health:

Chronic pain syndrome: Frequent body aches and pains of unknown origin.
Sleep disorders: Chronic insomnia reduces recovery ability and increases the risk of chronic diseases.

From a psychological perspective:

Loss of motivation: You feel empty, meaningless, and powerless.
Mental disorders: Prolonged burnout can lead to severe depression or suicidal thoughts.

Regarding daily life:

Reduced work performance: Lack of focus, increased error rate, decreased creativity.
Work-life imbalance: Relationships become strained due to a lack of energy and attention.

Safe and Sound Clinic - Family mental and health support

With a team of experienced doctors and specialists, Safe and Sound Clinic is a pioneer in comprehensive healthcare, offering services ranging from medical to psychological care.

"Early preparation - Timely support - Long-term partnership."

If you suspect you have a mental health problem, or would like more information about our counseling services, please contact our HOTLINE at 0964 778 911 (Phone/Zalo, 24/7) for prompt assistance and answers!

HOW TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT for online or in-person consultation with a specialist.

On the SNS Psychologist Fanpage
Alternatively, download and schedule a consultation on the Safe and Sound app to manage and track your appointments anytime, anywhere.

Safe and Sound is part of the Institute of Applied Medical Technology (IMT).

See more:

Things you need to know about mental exhaustion.

What is stress burnout? How to recognize burnout in yourself and others.

What is depression? What are the symptoms of depression? Is depression curable?