Focus Clinic

If you're constantly reaching for that third or fourth cup of coffee just to keep up, you're not alone. Burnout and ADHD can feel eerily similar - mental fatigue, difficulty focusing, a sense of overwhelm, and that ongoing feeling of always being behind. But while burnout is typically situational and can ease with rest or time away, ADHD is a neurological condition that requires a different kind of support.

Burnout vs. ADHD: Shared Symptoms, Different Roots

Burnout and ADHD share overlapping symptoms, including:

Difficulty concentrating or finishing tasks
Chronic forgetfulness
Emotional exhaustion and irritability
Feeling mentally disorganized or overwhelmed

The key difference? Burnout is usually short-term and triggered by external stress (like work or caregiving) whereas ADHD is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, focus, and executive functioning - regardless of circumstances.

Could it be undiagnosed ADHD? Many high-functioning adults feel scattered, unproductive, or emotionally drained — and blame it on burnout. But if these patterns persist even after rest, it might be something deeper.

According to the Centre for ADHD Awareness Canada (CADDAC), up to 85% of people with ADHD also live with anxiety or depression, which can make getting a proper diagnosis even harder - and more critical.

This April, take time to reflect:

Track your symptoms: Are they situational or persistent?
Educate yourself: Visit CADDAC is a great resource!
Talk to a professional: A proper ADHD assessment can be life-changing
Check in with others: You're not alone - and they might not be either

Canadian ADHD & Mental Health Resources:

If you've been feeling burnt out for far too long, maybe it's time to look deeper. As Mental Health Awareness month approaches, let's make space for that conversation.

It Burnout - or Adult ADHD?

Burnout vs. ADHD: Shared Symptoms, Different Roots