There are mornings when you wake up, and instead of clarity, there is a fog. It lingers through the day, clouding your thoughts and weighing down your body. Even simple tasks such as showering, opening your laptop or preparing a meal feel impossible. You tell yourself to push through, but the energy never comes. This is the silent exhaustion of depression, when motivation disappears.

In counselling, I worked with Laura (name changed) who described it as “living in slow motion while the world moves at normal speed.” She wanted to get things done, but no matter how many lists she made or how much she pressured herself, her body refused to cooperate. “It is like I am stuck in thick fog,” she said, “and I cannot find the way out.”

Depression often convinces people that lack of motivation is laziness. But it is not. It is the brain’s way of shutting down under emotional strain. The internal dialogue often sounds like: Why can everyone else do normal things while I fail at the basics? What is wrong with me? These thoughts only deepen the fog, creating guilt on top of exhaustion.

The absence of motivation is not just about lost productivity. It impacts relationships, self-worth, and daily living. You may avoid messages because replying feels too heavy. You may let small chores pile up until they feel unmanageable. You may even stop doing the things that once gave you comfort, not because you no longer care, but because the effort feels unreachable.

There are ways to gently begin navigating the fog. One practical strategy is reducing tasks into the smallest possible steps. Instead of “clean the kitchen,” focus on washing just one plate. Instead of “write the report,” open the document and type one sentence. For Laura, this meant setting a timer for five minutes of activity, followed by rest. She found that even the smallest actions created momentum that slowly carried her forward.

Another helpful approach is compassionate scheduling. Depression often makes people feel pressured to meet impossible expectations. Building in rest, breaks, and realistic goals allows you to move at a pace that feels human. Treating yourself with the same patience you would offer a loved one is key to finding balance.

The fog of depression can make it feel as if motivation will never return. But it is not permanent. With support, small steps, and the right guidance, the weight can lift, and clarity can return.

You do not have to carry this alone. Support is available, and taking the first step can change everything. Visit www.drkaranvirsingh.com and book your free 20-minute session today.