The Difference Between Anxiety and Burnout

Written By jacqueline imbemba

They Feel the Same — But They’re Not

Anxiety and burnout often overlap, but they come from different roots.

  • Anxiety is driven by fear — your body and mind are on high alert.

  • Burnout is driven by exhaustion — your system has been overworked for too long.

Signs of Anxiety

  • Racing thoughts

  • Restlessness or tension

  • Constant “what if” worries

  • Difficulty relaxing even when resting

Signs of Burnout

  • Emotional numbness

  • Chronic fatigue

  • Feeling detached or hopeless

  • Loss of motivation or joy

Healing Both

Anxiety asks for soothing. Burnout asks for rest.
Both require compassion and boundaries. Therapy can help you slow down, regulate your nervous system, and create sustainable balance between doing and being.

jacqueline imbemba
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