Understanding apathy and the ‘don’t care’ attitude

Apathy can be described as a loss of motivation and diminished interest in things people used to enjoy. People experiencing apathy may seem disconnected and emotionally numb. They might be unable to feel joy or pleasure, almost as if they don’t care about anything at all.

Over time, apathy can take a toll on a person’s well-being, relationships, and ability to function in daily life. When it’s persistent and severe, psychological apathy can be a sign of a mental health condition, like depression, or physical illness that may require professional help to overcome. 

Learning more about the difference between situational apathy and psychological apathy can help you know when to ask for help. 

What apathy looks like

Apathy can manifest in many different ways depending on the person. Sometimes it’s obvious, but it can also be hard to detect. 

Here are some examples of what apathy might look like:

• Speaking in a monotone voice 
• Using limited facial expressions or body language when communicating (blunt affect)
• Losing motivation, drive, or goal-directed behavior
• Lacking of enthusiasm, initiative, or emotion
• Feeling indifferent or not seeming to care about anything
• Losing interest in relationships
• Not being able to feel happiness
• Difficulty making choices or expressing a preference 
• Experiencing a reduced concern for others (a loss of empathy)
• No longer participating in hobbies or activities they used to enjoy
• Preferring to spend more time at home alone as opposed to engaging in social activities

As you review these examples, keep in mind that a person can experience apathy without having an underlying mental health concern. 

For example, you could experience temporary apathy in the aftermath of a traumatic event or an unexpected loss. This is referred to as situational apathy, and it typically resolves on its own. Psychological apathy, on the other hand, is severe and persistent, and it often signals an underlying mental health concern. 

Apathy, or a related loss of empathy, may be a symptom of conditions like: 

• Major depressive disorder (MDD)
• Dysthmia
• Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
• Schizophrenia 
• Bipolar disorder
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Neurological conditions (like dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, or Parkinson’s disease)

The care you need, when you need it

Learn how Rula can support your mental health journey

Subscribe

I agree to receive emails from Rula and accept the terms outlined in Client Email Consent and Privacy Policy.

Overcoming feelings of apathy

If you’re experiencing situational apathy, here are some things you can do on your own that may help:

• Identify the source. If you’re experiencing an episode of apathy, consider what may have caused it. Stressful life events like changing jobs, moving away from home, ending a serious relationship, or experiencing a loss can all trigger apathetic feelings. Sometimes, identifying the source of those feelings can help them feel less overwhelming.
• Set a goal. We all have times in our lives when we feel a little lost or disconnected. But having a goal — even a small one — can help you create a sense of purpose and make positive changes. For example, the goal could be anything from making a new friend to learning a new skill or looking for a new job.
• Focus on what you can change. Difficult as it may be, some problems are beyond our ability to solve on our own. So if you’re feeling hopeless or unmotivated, see if you can channel some energy toward making a difference where you can. For example, you might not be able to make sure everyone in your community is housed. But perhaps you can donate some items you don’t use to those in need.
• Ask for help. One of the challenges of apathy is that it can lead to isolation, meaning you might be tempted to withdraw from friends and loved ones. However, this may make the situation worse. When apathetic feelings arise, reaching out to someone you trust can help you feel more connected and less alone.

A note on safety: If apathy is making it difficult to take care of yourself, go to work or school, participate in activities you used to enjoy, or spend time with others, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Severe, ongoing apathy can be a sign that you may need professional support to manage your mental health. It can also signal safety concerns. For example, if you’re having thoughts like, “No one would miss me if I wasn’t here,” or, “I don’t see the point in living,” there are free, confidential resources available to help keep you safe. You can contact the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988 from any phone.

Find care with Rula

Apathy is something that most people will experience at some point. Sometimes, we go through things that leave us feeling unmotivated, hopeless, or disconnected. This is called situational apathy, and it tends to resolve on its own. But when it’s severe and pervasive, psychological apathy can be a sign of a serious mental health concern. If you’re experiencing apathy that’s impacting your quality of life, know that you’re not alone. Therapy can provide a safe space to process your emotions, rekindle a sense of purpose, and cultivate empathy for others.

At Rula, we’re committed to delivering a comprehensive behavioral health experience that helps people feel seen and understood so they can get back to feeling their best. 

Rula makes it easier to find a licensed therapist or psychiatric provider who accepts your insurance so you don’t have to choose between affordable care and excellent care. With a diverse network of more than 15,000 providers, 24/7 crisis support, and appointments available as soon as tomorrow, we’re here to help you make progress — wherever you are on your mental health journey.

Find a provider with Rula