Stress and burnout, though often used interchangeably, represent distinct states of mental and emotional strain, with stress characterized by heightened engagement and urgency, while burnout manifests as a pervasive sense of detachment and despair.
| Stress | Burnout |
| Characterised by over-engagement | Characterised by disengagement |
| Produces urgency and hyperactivity | Produces helplessness and hopelessness |
| Loss of energy | Loss of motivation, ideals and hope |
| Leads to anxiety disorders | Leads to detachment and depression |
| Primary damage is physical | Primary damage is emotional |
| May shorten life | May make life seem not worth living |
Adapted from D. Hart and quoted in ‘Stress in Ministry’ by R Croucher
Self Help Gym
Staff Room
Consulting Rooms
Managers Office
Stress Reduction Centre
Burnout Recovery Suite
