Apr 15, 2025

Aarushi Bhadury

Not Sure Whether It Is Fatigue Or Burnout? Answer These 10 Questions

​How long have you been feeling this way ​

Simple fatigue often improves with rest over a short period (a night's sleep or a weekend). Burnout tends to be a more prolonged state of exhaustion that doesn't easily resolve.

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​What areas of your life are most affected ​

While fatigue can impact various aspects, burnout is often specifically tied to chronic workplace stress, leading to negativity and detachment related to work.

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​Do you still find joy or satisfaction in things you used to enjoy ​

Simple fatigue might make you tired, but you can still experience pleasure. Burnout often involves a loss of interest and a sense of detachment from previously enjoyable activities.

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​How would you describe your energy levels ​

Is it a general feeling of tiredness, or is it a deep, pervasive exhaustion that makes it hard to function even after rest? Burnout often feels like a complete depletion of energy.

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​Are you experiencing increased negativity or cynicism, especially towards responsibilities ​

This negative and detached attitude is a key characteristic of burnout, not typically seen with simple fatigue.

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​Are you having trouble sleeping, even when you feel exhausted ​

While fatigue can make you sleepy, burnout often disrupts sleep patterns, leading to insomnia or feeling unrested despite sleeping.

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​Have you noticed any changes in your motivation or productivity ​

Simple fatigue might temporarily lower productivity. Burnout often leads to a significant and sustained decrease in motivation and feeling ineffective.

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​Are you experiencing any symptoms like frequent headaches, stomach issues, or muscle pain ​

While these can accompany both, they can be more pronounced or chronic with burnout due to prolonged stress.

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​How do you feel about taking time off ​

With simple fatigue, you might look forward to rest and expect it to help. With burnout, you might feel that even time off won't make a difference or feel guilty for taking it.

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​Do you feel a sense of being overwhelmed, helpless, or trapped in your current situation ​

These feelings of being unable to cope and a lack of control are strong indicators of burnout

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