Therapy Thursday: Understanding the Distinction Between Work Stress and Burnout

As workplace pressures surge, a staggering 94% of U.S. employees report significant stress, with many, like Carla, grappling with the thin line between stress and burnout. Dr. Brenda Lloyd Jones offers insights into recognizing and addressing this pervasive dilemma.

Thursday, May 29th 2025, 5:15 pm

By: David Prock

TULSA, Okla. -

It's Therapy Thursday, a segment where we answer your questions about relationships and mental health with the help of our friend Dr. Brenda Lloyd Jones from the University of Oklahoma.

This week, Carla asks about burnout at work and how to tell when it's more than just stress.

"I have been feeling drained and exhausted at work. I’ve heard of stress and burnout, and I’d like to understand the difference between the two."

Dr. Brenda explains that while employee stress is often linked to immediate pressures and deadlines, burnout represents a prolonged state of emotional and physical depletion.

Unlike stress, burnout persists even after tasks are completed and can result in feelings of hopelessness.

Dr. Brenda said that a recent study indicated that 94% of U.S. employees experience workplace stress, and 63% are contemplating changing their work environment due to this issue.

Dr. Brenda encouraged anyone facing severe stress or burnout to seek professional support or consider a change in their work conditions.