not sure if this is depression or just adhd burnout — how do i tell?

This can feel confusing because there is overlap. ADHD burnout often follows prolonged effort to compensate. It shows up as mental exhaustion, irritability, and reduced capacity, but interest and mood may still lift with rest or stimulation. Depression tends to involve persistent low mood, loss of pleasure, hopelessness, sleep and appetite changes, and a more global sense of heaviness. We look at duration, emotional tone, and whether motivation returns in preferred activities. Sometimes both are present. Chronic untreated ADHD can increase risk of depression over time. If flatness has lasted months and affects multiple areas of life, it deserves a proper evaluation. You do not have to figure it out alone.