Anhedonia
Losing interest in, or pleasure from, things you used to enjoy. It's a core symptom of depression and can also follow burnout or trauma.
Category: Symptoms and experiences
What is anhedonia?
With anhedonia, food, music, friends, or hobbies don't feel good the way they used to. Some people lose the wanting, so nothing seems worth starting. Others lose the enjoying. Things still happen, they just feel flat. French psychologist Théodule Ribot coined the word in 1896, from Greek words meaning without pleasure.
Key things to know
In the DSM-5, it's one of the two core signs of depression, along with low mood. It also shows up with PTSD, schizophrenia, substance use, and long stretches of stress. Because it drains motivation, it can look like laziness from the outside. It isn't laziness.
- It's a loss of interest, pleasure, or both.
- It's one of the two core symptoms of depression.
- It can look like laziness, but it's a symptom, not a choice.
- Doing small things before you feel like it helps bring pleasure back.
- If it lasts 2 weeks or more, get it checked.
What helps
Treating the cause usually brings pleasure back over time. Behavioural activation helps in a direct way. You plan small, doable activities before you feel like doing them, and the feeling tends to follow. If it lasts more than 2 weeks, talk to a doctor or therapist.
How SelfMind can help
SelfMind is an AI companion for everyday mental health support: a private place to talk through what you are feeling, in Hindi, English or Hinglish, at any hour. It is not therapy and not a crisis service; it works alongside professional care, never in place of it. You can try it free, no account needed.
Related terms
This entry is educational information, not medical advice, a diagnosis, or a treatment plan. For assessment and treatment, consult a qualified mental health professional. If you are in crisis, see our crisis resources. In India, Tele-MANAS is free at 14416, 24x7.