2 ms·
I'm not familiar with anhedonia as a formal diagnosis. But I am familiar with depression, of which "inability to feel joy" is commonly regarded as a primary sy
by tomhoward 8y ago
I'm not familiar with anhedonia as a formal diagnosis.
But I am familiar with depression, of which "inability to feel joy" is commonly regarded as a primary symptom.
Depression is common for people in their early 20s or even earlier, so it's possible to have that at your age.
The fact that you used to seek the activities you mentioned but no longer do, could be a response to the frustration of not having access to them, so your mind has switched off the desire, in order to numb you to that pain.
The mind has all kinds of ways of adapting to your circumstances in order to make life bearable through unpleasant experiences.
In the short term, you may need to seek professional treatment for depression. If your condition continues to decline, you might be in danger, so you should investigate whether therapy and/or medication or other treatment may be necessary.
Beyond that, you could benefit from some work to develop good strategies for getting good outcomes in social situations - e.g., overcoming self-consciousness, learning good conversational skills, getting better at showing sincere interest in people and being kind/generous.
I've been through the kinds of experiences you've described, and I understand how bleak it can feel.
But please trust that there are all kinds of things you can do to get to a better place, to develop a healthy and well-functioning social live, and to build a life you truly enjoy.
Feel free to email me if you're in further need of suggestions (address in profile).
Please know that you are loved and valued.
All the very best to you.