ADHD vs Depression vs Anxiety vs Burnout
These conditions share overlapping symptoms but require different approaches. Understanding the differences is the first step toward getting the right help.
Self-Diagnosis Is Not Recommended
This guide is for educational purposes only. These conditions often co-occur (comorbidity), and proper diagnosis requires evaluation by a qualified mental health professional.
Quick Overview
ADHD
Neurodevelopmental condition. Lifelong pattern of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that started in childhood.
Depression
Mood disorder. Persistent sadness, loss of interest, and feelings of hopelessness that affect daily functioning.
Anxiety
Anxiety disorder. Excessive worry, fear, and physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat and restlessness.
Burnout
Occupational phenomenon. Chronic workplace stress leading to exhaustion, cynicism, and reduced effectiveness.
Symptom Comparison Chart
| Symptom Area | ADHD | Depression | Anxiety | Burnout |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Attention & Focus | Chronic difficulty focusing, especially on non-stimulating tasks. Can hyperfocus on interesting activities. | Difficulty concentrating due to lack of motivation and mental fog. Affects all activities equally. | Trouble focusing due to racing thoughts and worry. Mind constantly jumps to worst-case scenarios. | Mental exhaustion makes focusing difficult. Was previously able to concentrate well. |
| Energy Levels | Variable energy - can be hyperactive or feel mentally exhausted. Often "wired but tired." | Persistent low energy and fatigue. Everything feels effortful. | Restless energy, feeling "on edge." Physical tension and inability to relax. | Complete exhaustion, especially related to work. Energy depleted over time. |
| Sleep | Difficulty falling asleep due to racing mind. Inconsistent sleep schedule. | Sleeping too much or too little. Difficulty getting out of bed. | Trouble falling asleep due to worry. Waking up with anxious thoughts. | Unrefreshing sleep despite exhaustion. May have insomnia or oversleep. |
| Mood | Emotional dysregulation, mood swings, frustration. Quick to feel emotions intensely. | Persistent sadness, emptiness, hopelessness. Loss of interest in activities. | Constant worry, fear, dread. Feeling overwhelmed by everyday situations. | Cynicism, detachment, feeling disconnected. Loss of meaning in work. |
| Onset & Duration | Lifelong pattern since childhood. Symptoms consistent across situations. | Can develop at any age. Episodes may come and go. | Can develop at any age. May be triggered by specific events. | Develops gradually from prolonged stress. Usually work-related. |
| Self-Perception | "Why can't I just do things like others?" Feels like underachieving despite effort. | "I'm worthless." Negative self-talk and guilt. | "Something bad will happen." Catastrophic thinking. | "I can't do this anymore." Feeling depleted and ineffective. |
Key Questions to Ask Yourself
🕐 When did it start?
- ADHD: Since childhood, always been this way
- Depression: Started at a specific point, or comes in episodes
- Anxiety: May have started after a stressful event
- Burnout: Developed gradually over months/years of stress
🎯 Can you focus on things you enjoy?
- ADHD: Yes! Can hyperfocus on interesting things for hours
- Depression: No, lost interest in previously enjoyable activities
- Anxiety: Sometimes, but worry interrupts enjoyment
- Burnout: Work-related tasks are hardest; hobbies may still bring joy
💭 What are your thoughts like?
- ADHD: Racing, jumping from topic to topic, easily distracted
- Depression: Slow, negative, self-critical, hopeless
- Anxiety: Worried about future, catastrophizing, "what if" thinking
- Burnout: Cynical about work, detached, questioning purpose
Understanding Comorbidity
It's common to have more than one condition at the same time. In fact, having one condition can increase your risk of developing another.
ADHD + Depression
About half of adults with ADHD also experience depression. The chronic struggles of ADHD can lead to depression over time.
ADHD + Anxiety
Approximately 50% of adults with ADHD have an anxiety disorder. Worry about forgetting things or making mistakes is common.
ADHD + Burnout
People with ADHD often work harder to compensate for difficulties, leading to higher burnout risk.
Screen Yourself for Multiple Conditions
Our screening tools can help you identify symptoms across different conditions. Remember, these are screening tools, not diagnostic tests.
What to Do Next
Take Screening Tests
Use our validated screening tools to identify which symptoms you're experiencing most.
Document Your Symptoms
Keep track of when symptoms occur, what triggers them, and how they affect your daily life.
Consult a Professional
Bring your screening results and symptom notes to a psychiatrist, psychologist, or your primary care doctor.
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Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. If you're experiencing symptoms of any of these conditions, please consult a qualified healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis.