anhedonia
Pronunciation: an-hee-DOH-nee-uh
The inability to experience pleasure in activities that were previously enjoyable, a core symptom of depression.
Full Definition
Anhedonia is the marked diminished interest or pleasure in activities that were previously enjoyable or rewarding. This symptom is considered one of the core features of major depressive disorder and can also occur in other psychiatric conditions such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Anhedonia can manifest as reduced interest in hobbies, social activities, work, or physical intimacy. It represents a qualitative change from the person's previous functioning and is distinguished from simple boredom or temporary loss of interest. Assessment of anhedonia is important for diagnosis, treatment planning, and monitoring treatment response in psychiatric patients.
Usage
Usage note: Often confused with apathy, but specifically refers to inability to experience pleasure.
In Context
- "The patient's anhedonia was evident in her complete loss of interest in previously loved activities." — psychiatric assessment
- "Improvement in anhedonia often lags behind other depressive symptoms during treatment." — treatment response monitoring