Why Am I So Overwhelmed? Is It Anxiety, ADHD, or Just Burnout? (Anxiety and ADHD treatment in Illinois)

We have all had those days where the to-do list feels miles long, and your brain just refuses to cooperate. But when "those days" turn into weeks or months, you might start asking yourself: Is this normal stress? Do I have anxiety? Or is this something else, like ADHD?

At Loving Minds Psychiatry Services, we hear these questions every day. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), nearly 31% of adults experience an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives, yet many "struggle in silence," trying to power through the chaos.

Psychiatrist Downers Grove, Telehealth Psychiatry IL, symptoms of burnout vs ADHD, Lovelyne Ngeche.

This guide will help you untangle the symptoms of Anxiety, ADHD, and Burnout, and explain how our compassionate team in Downers Grove can help you find your footing again.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only. It is not a diagnosis. Only a qualified mental health professional can provide a diagnosis.

The "Big Three" of Overwhelm

It is easy to confuse Anxiety, ADHD, and Burnout because they all share one major symptom: feeling unable to cope with daily demands. However, the root causes are different.

1. Anxiety: The "What If" Spiral

Anxiety is driven by worry and fear. It isn’t just about being stressed; it is a physiological state where your body is constantly on "high alert."

Common Signs of Anxiety:

• Racing thoughts: You can’t shut your brain off, especially at night.

• Physical tension: Tight shoulders, headaches, or a racing heart.

• Avoidance: You procrastinate because the task feels scary or overwhelming.

• Perfectionism: You are afraid to start because you might fail.

If you find yourself constantly imagining the worst-case scenario, anxiety might be the driver. You can read more about the specific symptoms of Generalized Anxiety Disorder at the NIMH website.

2. Adult ADHD: The "Attention" Struggle

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) isn't just for kids. In adults, it often looks less like hyperactivity and more like "executive dysfunction"—a fancy term for trouble managing your life.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), adult ADHD often presents as:

• Scatterbrain: You start three tasks but finish none.

• Time Blindness: You are chronically late or underestimate how long things take.

• Focus issues: You can’t focus on boring tasks, but you "hyperfocus" on things you like.

• Restlessness: You feel an internal motor that won't stop running.

If you want to do the work but literally cannot make your brain engage, it might be ADHD.

3. Burnout: The "Empty Tank"

Burnout is usually situational. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines burnout specifically as an "occupational phenomenon" resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed.

Common Signs of Burnout:

• Exhaustion: You feel tired even after sleeping.

• Cynicism: You feel detached or resentful toward your job or responsibilities.

• Inefficiency: Tasks that used to be easy now feel like climbing a mountain.

Why You Can't "Just Relax"

Telling someone with a chemical imbalance to "just relax" is like telling someone with a broken leg to "walk it off."

Whether it is Anxiety, ADHD, or Depression, these are medical conditions. They involve neurotransmitters in your brain, like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, that need to be balanced. Organizations like NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) emphasize that mental health conditions are medical issues, not character flaws.

This is where Loving Minds Psychiatry Services comes in. We believe you shouldn't have to navigate this alone.

How We Help You "Elevate All of You"

At Loving Minds, we don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Led by Lovelyne Ngeche, PMHNP-BC, our practice combines medical expertise with genuine heart.

1. Compassionate, Non-Judgmental Care

Our name says it all. We provide a safe space where you are treated with dignity. We listen to your story, not just your symptoms, to understand the full picture of your life.

2. Comprehensive Treatment Plans

We offer both Psychiatric Evaluations (to get the right diagnosis) and Medication Management.

We also integrate Psychotherapy (talk therapy) because pills don't teach skills. Often, the best results come from a combination of the two.

3. Accessible Care in Illinois (No Waitlists!)

Many psychiatrists have month-long waitlists. We know mental health can't wait.

• Quick Access: We often have appointments available within one week.

• Telehealth: See us from the comfort of your home, anywhere in Illinois.

• In-Person: Visit our welcoming clinic in Downers Grove, IL.

• Flexible Hours: We offer evening and Saturday appointments to fit your busy schedule.

4. We Accept Insurance

Quality care should be affordable. We accept major insurance plans, including BCBS, Cigna, Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, Oxford, and Medicaid.

When To Seek Help (Anxiety and ADHD treatment in Illinois)

If you recognize yourself in the descriptions above, and if these feelings are affecting your work, relationships, or happiness, it is time to reach out.

You do not have to struggle in silence. Whether you need clarity on a diagnosis, a medication adjustment, or just a supportive plan to get back on track, we are here. Anxiety and ADHD treatment in Illinois.

Ready to Find Peace?

Take the first step today. You can book an appointment online or call us directly.

• Call/Text: (630) 360-8077

• Book Online: Schedule Your Appointment

• Location: 1431 Opus Place, Suite 110, Downers Grove, IL 60515 (or Virtual across IL)

Loving Minds Psychiatry Services: Empathetic care for a healthier, happier you.