Is It Depression or Is It Something Else? Understanding What You’re Really Going Through

If you're feeling low, exhausted, or emotionally flat, it's normal to ask: is it depression, or is it something else? Conditions like perimenopause, ADHD, anxiety, burnout, chronic fatigue, and even long COVID can mimic or overlap with depression — but require different kinds of support.

TL;DR

  • Depression shares symptoms with many conditions, including perimenopause, menopause, anxiety, ADHD, burnout, chronic fatigue, and long COVID.

  • Understanding the root cause of your symptoms is essential for choosing the right treatment.

  • A clinical psychologist can help you explore whether it's depression or something else — and what to do next.

  • You're not imagining your symptoms, and you don't have to figure it out alone.

Is It Depression or Perimenopause?

Perimenopause is the 5–10 year hormonal transition before menopause, typically beginning in your 40s. It can cause:

  • Mood swings

  • Low energy

  • Irritability

  • Sleep problems

  • Brain fog or forgetfulness

These symptoms often mimic depression — but may not respond well to antidepressants alone. Hormonal changes, particularly fluctuating estrogen and progesterone, play a big role.

What helps:

  • Seeing a GP who understands perimenopausal mental health

  • Blood tests for hormonal markers

  • Lifestyle support, psychological therapy, or HRT if appropriate

Is It Depression or Menopause?

Menopause, defined as 12 months without a menstrual period, can also bring on mental health changes such as:

  • Low mood

  • Anxiety

  • Loss of motivation

  • Sleep disruption

  • Reduced libido

While depression and menopause can co-occur, it's important to distinguish whether symptoms are hormonal or psychological in origin.

Ask yourself:

  • Did mood symptoms start with physical changes (hot flashes, night sweats, periods stopping)?

  • Do you have a history of mood disorders, or is this new?

Treatment may include a mix of hormonal, and psychological support.

Is It Depression or Anxiety?

Anxiety and depression often go hand in hand, but they are not the same.

Depression symptoms Anxiety symptoms
Persistent sadness or numbness Persistent worry or fear
Low motivation Racing thoughts
Feelings of worthlessness Sense of impending doom
Sleep disturbance (can’t get up) Sleep disturbance (can’t fall asleep)
Withdrawal from others Restlessness or agitation

It's possible to have both depression and anxiety — known as a comorbid condition.

Is It Depression or ADHD?

Many adults with undiagnosed ADHD experience:

  • Difficulty starting or finishing tasks

  • Poor memory or concentration

  • Emotional overwhelm

  • Low self-esteem

  • Feeling "lazy" or "not good enough"

This often leads to what looks like depression — especially when people internalise criticism or struggle with daily demands.

If your low mood comes from frustration with underperformance, shame, or feeling constantly behind, consider an ADHD assessment.

Is It Depression or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS/ME)?

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) — also called Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) — includes:

  • Debilitating exhaustion not relieved by rest

  • Post-exertional malaise (worse after activity)

  • Muscle aches, headaches, brain fog

  • Unrefreshing sleep

  • Light sensitivity or dizziness

While depression causes low energy, it usually also includes low mood, anhedonia (lack of joy), and negative self-talk — which aren't defining features of CFS.

What helps:

  • Pacing, energy conservation, nervous system regulation

  • CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) based psychological therapy focused on adjustment and coping

  • Rule out thyroid or other underlying conditions

Is It Depression or Long COVID?

Long COVID is a post-viral condition that may include:

  • Brain fog

  • Mood swings

  • Fatigue

  • Poor concentration

  • Breathlessness or chest pain

  • Sensory overload

These symptoms can resemble or trigger depression — especially if they limit daily function.

Tips:

  • Track symptoms and their triggers

  • Seek a medical team familiar with post-COVID recovery

  • Address both physical and emotional wellbeing

Is It Depression or Burnout?

Burnout is a form of emotional exhaustion caused by chronic stress, especially in workplaces or caregiving roles.

Signs of burnout:

  • Cynicism or detachment

  • Emotional exhaustion

  • Reduced sense of accomplishment

  • Feeling numb or "beyond caring"

  • Mental fog and lack of motivation

Burnout and depression can co-exist. But burnout tends to improve with rest and role changes, while depression persists regardless of circumstance.

When It Is Depression

You may be dealing with depression if:

  • You feel low most of the time, without relief

  • You've lost interest in activities you used to enjoy

  • You struggle to function at work, home, or socially

  • You feel hopeless or worthless

  • There's no identifiable trigger, or the symptoms persist long after the trigger is gone

So... Do You Have Depression or Something Else?

If you're asking, "Do I have depression or is it something else?", that question in itself is valid and worth exploring. We are here to help.

You may be dealing with:

  • A misdiagnosed condition, like ADHD

  • A missed diagnosis, like perimenopause or long COVID

  • Co-occurring conditions that require an integrated approach

What You Can Do Next

  • Talk to a clinical psychologist or GP who can screen for overlapping issues

  • Keep a symptom journal noting mood, sleep, energy, cycles, and stressors

  • Rule out physical health causes like thyroid, B12, iron, and hormonal imbalance

  • Ask about a referral for ADHD or hormone testing if relevant

  • Advocate for yourself — you know your body and mind best


Local Depression support and therapy in Sydney- help is closer than you think

At Equilibrium Psychology, our team has a lot of experience in helping clients unpack complex presentations where depression may overlap with other conditions.

We support clients with:

  • Depression, anxiety, and burnout

  • Neurodiversity, ADHD assessment and therapy

  • Postnatal support and support for hormonal transition times

  • Tailored treatment plans with evidence based treatments including CBT, ACT and EMDR

  • Friendly, experienced, practical and personalised support


Why Choose Equilibrium Psychology?

Founded by Clinical Psychologist Gemma Cribb almost 20 years ago, our experienced team of over 20 AHPRA registered Clinical Psychologists (and Angel the Therapy Dog!) offer practical help in treating depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and more.

We offer:

  • CBT, ACT, EMDR, and trauma-informed therapy

  • Medicare rebates with a GP referral

  • Inclusive, non-judgemental care

  • After-hours and online sessions available

  • No waitlists

  • Located in Sydney CBD, 3 minutes from Wynyard Station

  • Telehealth available Australia wide


Next Steps

You don't have to figure this out on your own.

Whether it's depression, perimenopause, ADHD, or something else — your experience is real, and there are effective ways to understand and manage it.

👉 Enquire about being matched with one of our experienced psychologists online, or

📞 Call our friendly team on (02) 9262 6156 to find the right psychologist for you.


*Last updated: July 2025*


NEED URGENT SUPPORT?

If you're feeling overwhelmed or need immediate help, please contact:

- Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636

- Lifeline: 13 11 14

- In an emergency, call 000

These services are available 24/7 and can provide immediate support.


Gemille Cribb