Many people experience stress and exhaustion, especially in today’s fast-paced world. But when low mood, fatigue, and loss of motivation linger for weeks or months, it may be more than just stress or burnout. Understanding the difference can help you seek the right kind of support.

What Is Depression?

Depression is a mental health condition that affects mood, thinking, energy, and daily functioning. It goes beyond feeling sad or overwhelmed and can interfere with:

relationships
work
sleep
self-care

Unlike temporary stress, depression often persists even when external pressures decrease.

Common Signs of Depression

Depression can look different for each person, but common signs include:

Ongoing low mood or emotional numbness
Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
Persistent fatigue or low energy
Changes in sleep (too much or too little)
Changes in appetite or weight
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
Withdrawing from friends or family
A sense of hopelessness about the future

If several of these symptoms last two weeks or longer, it may be helpful to speak with a mental health professional.

Stress vs. Burnout vs. Depression

Stress

Usually linked to specific pressures such as work, school, finances, or relationships
Symptoms often improve when the stressor is removed or reduced.

Burnout

A state of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion caused by prolonged stress
Often related to work or caregiving
People may feel detached, cynical, or depleted but might still enjoy life in other areas.

Depression

Affects overall mood and functioning, not just one area of life
Even when life circumstances improve, feelings of emptiness, low motivation, or disconnection may remain.

When to Seek Professional Support

You may want to consider counselling if:

Symptoms last more than two weeks
Daily functioning becomes difficult
You feel stuck, overwhelmed, or emotionally numb
You’re unsure whether what you’re experiencing is stress, burnout, or depression

Early support can prevent symptoms from becoming more severe and help restore emotional balance. Depression Counselling in Vancouver is available today.

How Depression Counselling in Vancouver Can Help

Counselling can help you:

Understand what you’re experiencing
Develop tools to manage low mood and stress
Improve emotional regulation and coping skills
Address underlying life patterns, trauma, or relationship challenges
Rebuild motivation, confidence, and resilience

Different approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), trauma-informed therapy, and emotion-focused therapy can be tailored to your unique needs.

Support in Vancouver and Online

If you are in Vancouver or anywhere in British Columbia, professional Depression Counselling in Vancouver is available both in-person and online. Working with a registered clinical counsellor can provide a safe space to explore what you’re feeling and begin the process of healing. Contact Well Health Counselling today to book your complimentary consultation.

Signs It Might Be Depression (Not Just Stress or Burnout)