Stress and Fatigue

Stress and Depression

Depression and burnout are complex mental conditions that are often invisible or difficult to identify. Approximately 280 million people in the world have depression, and with the modern pressures of work and life, 77% of employees have experienced burnout.  These aren’t just numbers - they are friends, family, colleagues, and neighbours. They are us. These conditions often hide behind cheerful smiles, a great work ethic, or a strong personality.

What is depression?

Depression (major depressive disorder) is a common and serious medical illness that negatively affects how you feel, the way you think and how you act. Fortunately, it is also treatable.  Depression causes feelings of sadness and/or a loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed. It can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems and can decrease your ability to function at work and at home. Depression comes in many forms - Major Depressive Disorder, Seasonal Affective Disorder, Postpartum Depression, Persistent Depressive Disorder, Atypical Depression, and more.

What is burnout?

Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress. It occurs when you feel overwhelmed, emotionally drained, and unable to meet constant demands. Burnout reduces productivity and saps your energy, leaving you feeling increasingly helpless, hopeless, cynical, and resentful.

Identifying the signs and symptoms of depression and burnout

The signs of depression and burnout can be subtle. This can make it difficult to recognise them, especially in ourselves.

If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s important to talk to your doctor:

• Persistent sadness or hopelessness
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities you used to enjoy
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
• Fatigue or loss of energy
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Thoughts of death or suicide
• Changes in behaviour, such as withdrawal from social activities or increased irritability

Why you should get tested

If you’re concerned that you or someone you know may be struggling with depression or burnout, it’s important to get tested. Testing can help to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other possible conditions. It can also help to identify the underlying causes of the condition, which can be important for treatment. SYNLAB offers a variety of testing and diagnosis services for depression and burnout. Don’t wait any longer. Book your test today.