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CharGrilledCharContributor
Hi everyone!
I just have a quick question..
I used to feel the ambiance of a restaurant or the atmosphere of a night club, but now I can't feel anything.. Like I'm completely flat or numb or blunt..
And I was just wondering what this symptom is called?
Thanks everyone.
In response to: Is this anhedonia or something else?..
AlisseSenior Contributor
Hi @CharGrilledChar
Yes, this symptom is called anhedonia.
What your'e describing, feeling numb, flat, blunt, or nothing brings you joy, sounds like anhedonia. It's a word used to describe when someone no longer feels pleasure in things that used to make them happy.
This can be a sign of depression, but it’s also common in other mental health challenges.
I’ve experienced something similar. I used to enjoy noisy environments, but now I get overstimulated and overwhelmed easily. I’ve learned to be selective about what I attend to protect my mental health.
As we become more aware of what triggers us, we can make changes that help us maintain our well-being.
It’s okay if you no longer feel excited about restaurants or nightclubs. What matters is that there are still things in your life that bring you joy, like a beloved pet, a good book, a walk on the beach, or spending time with people who lift you up.
Be kind to yourself and surround yourself with positive people who make you feel good.
Kindly
Alisse
In response to: Is this anhedonia or something else?..
Unknown userMember
Hi @CharGrilledChar
It certainly sounds like anhedonia.
I have suffered from major depressive disorder since the age of 10 and even back then I felt disconnected. At 62 I feel very little pleasure in life, especially being around people, which is probably why I live alone and have no friends. I'm trying to be kinder to myself and treat myself now and again but I'm not sure I'll ever feel that sense of looking forward to anything. I just feel blank like I have no soul or personality. Hard to explain.
The following was taken from the internet:-
What is an example of anhedonia?
There are two types of anhedonia: Social: Social anhedonia occurs when you don't enjoy being around people. Physical: Physical anhedonia occurs when physical touch, smells or sounds don't bring you joy. Examples include listening to music, eating food etc.
What is the main cause of anhedonia?
Anhedonia refers to the loss of ability to feel pleasure and is a common symptom of depressive disorders and substance use disorder. It may be caused by a decrease in activation of the region of the brain involved in reward and motivation.
I guess you could talk to your GP as SSRI medication may help. You may not necessarily have anhedonia, you may have just outgrown some of the things that gave you pleasure.
Warmest regards,
R 🌻
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SANE acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.
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