Anhedonia

By Indie

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Anhedonia is the inability to feel pleasure in normally pleasurable activities. Anhedonia can be a symptom of depression or any other mental health disorder. 

There are two types of anhedonia. Social and physical anhedonia. Social anhedonia is the lack of interest in social gatherings whilst physical anhedonia is the disinterest in feeling sensations. E.g. your favourite foods might taste bland or the hobbies you once enjoyed, you don’t enjoy anymore. 

What causes anhedonia? Anhedonia might be caused by procrastination. Doing less stressful things than focusing on important tasks, can lead to anhedonia and depression. This increases the chances of anhedonia although there are factors that are caused by imbalances of chemicals in the brain. 

I am familiar with anhedonia. It is the most stressful part when I experience depression. Hobbies and things I used to enjoy, I do not enjoy them anymore once anhedonia arrives. Everything that I do to try to pass the time does not feel enjoyable anymore. Times like this feel like I am being swallowed into a black hole. 

Whenever anhedonia strikes, I find that meditation can help. Doing meditation for five to fifteen minutes improves my ability to complete tasks. 

Another way to treat anhedonia is by seeking the help of a medical professional. Your medical professional may prescribe you medication or help change your current lifestyle. E.g. time management and dietary changes. 

The lack of interest/pleasure can affect your life. Contact a medical professional as soon as possible. Anhedonia can only go away when your mental health is managed. 
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To get in contact with your local helplines then visit:
https://checkpointorg.com/global/ 

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