Anhedonia
Pronunciation: an-hee-DOH-nee-uh
The diminished or complete inability to experience pleasure from activities that were previously found enjoyable, a hallmark symptom of major depressive disorder and other psychiatric conditions.
Full Definition
Anhedonia refers to a significant reduction or total loss of the ability to feel pleasure, interest, or motivation in activities that once brought satisfaction. It is one of the two core diagnostic criteria for a major depressive episode under DSM-5-TR and is also observed in schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders. Editors working on clinical documentation should distinguish between the term itself and lay descriptions such as 'loss of interest,' which may be used interchangeably by clinicians. The term derives from the Greek 'an-' (without) and 'hēdonē' (pleasure). It is frequently documented in mental status examinations and progress notes.
Usage
Usage note: Do not confuse with 'apathy,' which refers to diminished motivation rather than diminished pleasure; both can coexist.
In Context
- "The clinician documented persistent anhedonia lasting more than two weeks as a primary presenting symptom." — Psychiatric evaluation report
- "Progress notes should use 'anhedonia' rather than the colloquial phrase 'doesn't enjoy anything anymore.'" — Editorial style guidance for clinical records