Live Chat: 6 Top Doctors Answer Mental Health Questions Every Gen Z Parent Is Afraid To Ask

Mental exhaustion and depression can appear similar, but their duration and impact often differ. “Mental exhaustion is usually temporary and often occurs after periods of stress, overwork or emotional strain. With adequate rest and recovery, symptoms generally improve,” says Dr Naveen. Depression, on the other hand, is more persistent, typically lasting two weeks or longer. It is marked by a consistently low mood, loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, fatigue, poor concentration, changes in sleep and appetite, and social withdrawal. “The key difference is that depression affects mood, thoughts, behaviour and daily functioning over a sustained period,” he explains.