# 23 - The Cost of Mislabeling Autistic Burnout as Depression

So many late-diagnosed autistic women were told they were depressed when what they were actually experiencing was burnout.

In this episode, Dr. Allison Sucamele explores why autistic burnout is so often misdiagnosed as depression in women who spent decades masking, overriding their nervous systems, and performing competence at an enormous internal cost. We unpack the critical differences between mood collapse and capacity collapse, why traditional diagnostic frameworks miss autistic burnout, and how mislabeling it can lead to ineffective, and sometimes harmful treatment.

This conversation isn’t about rejecting mental health care. It’s about naming the right experience so the care can finally fit.

If you’ve ever thought, “I don’t feel sad the way depression is described. I feel empty, flattened, incapable, or shut down,” this episode is for you.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and reflective purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized medical or mental health care.

If you are experiencing thoughts of self-harm or feel unsafe, please seek immediate support. In the United States, you can call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If you’re outside the U.S., please consult your local emergency resources.