Depression and Anhedonia

One of the most pervasive symptoms of depression is a general loss of pleasure with just about everything. Things you used to enjoy can seem like torture when depressed, which can in turn lead to isolation and withdrawl. The technical term for this loss of pleasure is anhedonia and is very common, almost universal, in those coping with depression.

In my personal journey with depression, anhedonia caused the greatest difficulty. Those close to me couldn't understand why I just didn't seem up to events and activities I previously enjoyed so much. My relationships suffered. As I withdrew from everybody and everything, the world naturally continued, and my inability to actively participate became frustrating and overwhelming.

For a while I forced myself to do things even though the desire was absent, but eventually I just sort of succombed to the anhedonia and isolated myself from everthing and everyone. If the world was a high school, I was a dropout, locked out of all the joy and opportunities associated with membership.


If you share these same types of feelings, take some comfort in knowing you are not alone. Be honest with your loved ones and tell them just how you are feeling and don't hesitate to seek out assistance from a medical professional. This condition will not last forever.