anhedonie

Anhedonie, commonly written in English as anhedonia, is the diminished ability to experience pleasure from activities that are typically enjoyable. It can involve a reduced experience of pleasure in the moment (consummatory anhedonia) and a reduced motivation to seek pleasurable experiences in the future (anticipatory anhedonia). It is a symptom rather than a standalone diagnosis.

Anhedonia occurs in several psychiatric and neurological conditions. It is a core feature of major depressive disorder and can appear in bipolar disorder during depressive episodes. It is also seen in schizophrenia, substance use disorders, and certain neurological diseases such as Parkinson’s disease. Anhedonia can accompany other symptoms like low mood, apathy, and social withdrawal, and it can contribute significantly to functional impairment and reduced quality of life.

Neurobiologically, anhedonia is linked to disruptions in reward processing circuits, including dopaminergic pathways in the mesolimbic system and changes in the ventral striatum and prefrontal cortex. Factors such as inflammation, stress, and genetic predisposition may influence these circuits. The distinction between anticipatory and consummatory forms may reflect different underlying mechanisms or neural pathways.

Assessment typically involves clinical interviews and standardized scales, such as the Snaith-Hamilton Pleasure Scale (SHAPS) and other mood or negative-symptom measures, used as part of a broader evaluation.

Treatment focuses on the underlying condition and may include psychotherapy (e.g., behavioral activation, cognitive-behavioral therapy), lifestyle interventions (exercise, social engagement), and pharmacotherapy tailored to the diagnosis. Some medications with dopaminergic activity, such as certain antidepressants or antipsychotics, may help, though responses vary. Early recognition and integrated care are associated with better outcomes.