Anhedonia is the loss of satisfaction and interest in various activities, such as going out with friends, going to the cinema or walking on the beach, for example, which were previously considered pleasurable.
This type of change is very common in people who have a reduced production of dopamine, an important hormone linked to the feeling of pleasure. In addition, the presence of psychological disorders, such as depression or schizophrenia, as well as the use of certain substances may also cause anhedonia.
- It is important that the cause is identified so that treatment can be more specific and psychotherapy sessions may be recommended or the use of antidepressant medications prescribed by the psychiatrist may be recommended.
The main symptoms that may indicate anhedonia include
Anhedonia is one of the main symptoms of major depressive disorder. In addition, diseases such as schizophrenia, psychosis, Parkinson’s disease, anorexia nervosa, addiction and the use of medications such as antidepressants and antipsychotics used to treat depression can also cause anhedonia.
Some risk factors can also lead to the development of anhedonia, such as traumatic or stressful events, a history of abuse or neglect, diseases that have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life, an eating disorder, or a family history of major depression. or schizophrenia.
Anhedonia is curable, but it can be very difficult to treat. It usually involves treating the underlying disease, such as depression or other psychiatric illness.
The first option is psychotherapy with a therapist, who evaluates the person’s psychological status and derives it if necessary to a psychiatrist, who can prescribe medications such as antidepressants or remedies for the person’s psychiatric problem.
Periodic medical follow-up should be done to identify possible side effects caused by medications and adjust the dosage for best results.
Because anhedonia is, in most cases, one of the symptoms of depression, it is important to identify and treat this condition. Watch the video below some ways to identify and help others with depression: