If you’ve ever said, “I just can’t get going,” or felt like even small tasks take too much effort, you’re not alone. Feeling stuck, tired, or disconnected from the things you care about can be signs of something deeper, especially when these feelings last for days or weeks. There’s a strong link between depression and motivation, and understanding it is the first step toward feeling better.

The New Directions Mental Health team understands how deeply depression can affect your everyday life, especially your energy, focus, and drive. We offer personalized, evidence-based depression treatment for people of all ages across Southwestern Pennsylvania. If you’re struggling with motivation, we’re here to help you take the next step.

Why does depression affect motivation?

Depression isn’t just sadness. It can impact how your brain functions, especially the parts that help you plan, make decisions, and get things done. This is known as cognitive control in depression.

When these areas of the brain are affected, even basic activities—like brushing your teeth, answering a text, or starting homework—can feel overwhelming. It’s not laziness. It’s a very real symptom of depression.

People living with depression often say:

• “I want to do it, but I just can’t start.”
• “I know it’s important, but I feel stuck.”
• “I feel tired all the time, even when I rest.”

This lack of motivation can affect school, work, relationships, and daily routines. And the more you feel like you’re falling behind, the worse it can feel. That’s why recognizing the link between depression and motivation is so important.

Common symptoms of low motivation

It’s not always easy to spot symptoms of low motivation, especially when they’re tied to mental health. But here are some signs that might mean it’s time to reach out for support:

• You stop doing things you used to enjoy
• Daily tasks feel exhausting or pointless
• You feel guilty or frustrated for “not trying hard enough”
• You have trouble starting or finishing simple tasks
• You withdraw from friends, school, or work

These symptoms are often connected to depression, and they’re not something you can “snap out of” on your own. But with the right care and support, healing is possible.

The role of burnout

Sometimes, what looks like depression is actually burnout, or both. Burnout happens when you’ve pushed yourself too hard for too long without enough rest or support. It’s especially common in students, caregivers, healthcare workers, and people who feel like they always have to be “on.”

Burnout and depression can share many symptoms, such as:

• Fatigue
• Difficulty focusing
• Feeling detached or hopeless
• Reduced performance or interest in responsibilities

Whether you’re experiencing burnout, depression, or both, the result is often the same: low energy, low mood, and a loss of motivation. The good news? You don’t have to keep pushing through it alone. Seeking professional mental health support can make a huge difference in managing and overcoming burnout and depression.

Depression and motivation: What can help?

There’s no quick fix—but there is hope. Understanding the connection between depression and motivation can help you feel less alone and more empowered to seek care.

Here are a few ways to begin healing:

• Start small: Break tasks into tiny steps. Brushing your teeth or getting out of bed counts.
• Celebrate wins: Even on tough days, notice what you did accomplish, even if it felt small.
• Talk to someone: A therapist can help you make sense of what you’re feeling and build coping skills.
• Explore treatment options: Therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes can all play a role in improving motivation and mood.
• Practice self-compassion: You’re not lazy or weak—what you’re experiencing is real and treatable.

Remember, taking small, consistent steps toward self-care and seeking support can lead to meaningful progress—each effort brings you closer to feeling like yourself again.

How New Directions Mental Health can support you

At New Directions Mental Health, we see you. Our team provides personalized care that meets you where you are. Whether you’re experiencing depression, burnout, or struggling with symptoms of low motivation, we’re here to listen and help.

We offer:

• Therapy for individuals, families, and children
• Psychiatric medication management
• Innovative treatments for treatment-resistant depression (TRD)
• Both in-person and virtual appointments

Our caring and knowledgeable clinicians live and work in the same communities we serve, and we believe that mental health care should be accessible, inclusive, and empowering.

Reach out to get the mental health care you need

You don’t have to keep pushing through on your own. If depression or low motivation is making daily life harder, reaching out can open the door to real support and relief. The care you deserve is within reach—and we’re here to walk alongside you. Call New Directions Mental Health today at 724.374.7414 to connect with a compassionate provider who understands what you’re going through and can help you take the next step forward.

For new clients, please click here to schedule an appointment. For existing clients, please click here and find your office location to contact your office directly.