Bored, Stretched Thin or Depressed? Making Sense of Low Energy States as a Neurodivergent Person

For many neurodivergent folks (NDs), experiencing low motivation, exhaustion or emotional flatness can be a regular part of life. But what can be difficult - even for the most self-aware among us - is knowing why we feel this way. Are we just uninspired? Are we running on empty? Or is something deeper going on?

This can be even harder to untangle for NDs who experience alexithymia - a difficulty identifying and describing internal states. When you can’t quite name what’s happening inside you, it becomes even harder to figure out what kind of support or action you need.

Understanding the difference between boredom, fatigue and depression can help us move forward more effectively - without jumping to conclusions, and without beating ourselves up for not being productive or motivated. Here’s how we can start to tell them apart.

1. Bored and Uninspired

This isn’t just about being bored with a task. For many NDs, especially ADHDers, boredom can feel like a complete dopamine drought. It’s the wilted-vegetable feeling of dragging yourself through the day with no particular spark. It can show up when nothing feels interesting or rewarding, when you’re stuck in repetitive routines, or when the deep dive of hyperfocus just isn’t there.

Signs it might be boredom:

• You feel flat, directionless, or vaguely dissatisfied without knowing why

• You’re not physically tired, but everything feels like a chore

• You find yourself scrolling, zoning out, or aimlessly switching tasks

• The things you usually hyperfocus on don’t seem to grab you anymore

What helps: Try introducing novelty, play, or a fresh challenge - something with curiosity, stakes, or creative freedom. Even small tweaks to routine can bring back a flicker of dopamine. Reconnecting with a sense of meaning or stimulation (not just obligation) can also make a difference.

2. Fatigue From Stretching Yourself Too Thin

Fatigue is often misunderstood as just being sleepy, but it’s more than that. For NDs, fatigue can be the result of masking, sensory overload, social fatigue, or just pushing through life in a world not built for our brains.

Unlike boredom, which often lifts when you do something interesting, fatigue tends to follow you around - even when you’re doing things you like.

Signs it might be fatigue or impending burnout:

• You wake up tired, no matter how much you slept (or, if this is already your norm, then think of it as worse than what you’re already used to)

• Even fun things feel effortful or draining

• You struggle with basic tasks like showering, cooking, or replying to messages

• Your brain feels foggy, heavy or ‘offline’ (e.g., if you find yourself staring at a wall)

• You might feel flat or numb, but not necessarily sad

What helps: Rest - real rest. This might mean more sleep, or it might mean doing nothing and allowing yourself to stop masking, stop performing, and just be. Reducing demands, creating low-stimulation environments, and doing things that nourish (rather than deplete) you is key. Throw in as much neurodivergent TLC as you can to prevent it from developing into a full-blown ND burnout.

3. Depression

Depression is more than tiredness or boredom - it’s a persistent and often pervasive shift in mood, thoughts and energy levels. It can sometimes look like burnout or executive dysfunction on its own, especially in NDs. But depression tends to come with marked changes in self-worth, hope or perspective.

Signs it might be depression:

• You feel persistently low, hopeless or emotionally numb

• There’s a sense of heaviness, like nothing matters or will get better

• You struggle to enjoy things you used to like, or to bring yourself to engage in any of them

• You feel worthless, like a burden, or question your value

• Thoughts of death or wishing you didn’t exist (even passively, e.g., “not minding” if you don’t exist anymore)

What helps: If you suspect depression or suicidality, it’s important to reach out for support - whether that’s a therapist, a GP or a 24/7 crisis line. Depression is not just a mindset; it’s a valid and treatable condition. You don’t need to figure it all out alone.

* In the case of an emergency, please call 000 immediately, or call Lifeline at 13 11 14.

Why Sorting It Out Matters

When we don’t know what’s going on inside us, we often try to push through - or we shut down completely. But understanding whether we’re bored, stretched thin or depressed can help us choose the right kind of care.

You don’t need to have perfect insight to deserve support. And please don’t wait until things get ‘bad enough’ to do something kind for yourself or seek support.

Give yourself permission to slow down, get curious, and explore what your brain and body might be trying to tell you.

You’re not broken for not instinctively knowing what you’re going through. You’re not being dramatic either. You’re learning how to listen to your mind and body, and that’s being responsible and caring.

Do you work with the neurodivergent community and are committed to the ongoing learning of neuro-affirming practices? Apply for a NAPAA professional membership today for exclusive access to a growing library of members' resource.