How anhedonia shows up in schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a complex psychotic disorder that impacts how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. While it’s often associated with hallucinations (seeing or sensing things that aren’t really there) and delusions (strongly held false beliefs), these are just part of the condition. Anhedonia schizophrenia refers to the persistent inability to feel joy or pleasure, a symptom that affects many people with schizophrenia. 

Anhedonia makes it difficult to find enjoyment in activities that once brought happiness. Research suggests that approximately 41% of people with schizophrenia experience anhedonia, highlighting how common and challenging this symptom can be.

Although anhedonia isn’t a separate diagnosis, the term “anhedonia schizophrenia” is often used to describe this experience within the disorder. Understanding how anhedonia fits into schizophrenia can help you recognize symptoms, seek appropriate support, and explore treatment options that improve overall well-being.

What anhedonia looks like in schizophrenia

Not everyone with schizophrenia will experience anhedonia, but it is common. While it can present differently in different people, here are some examples of how anhedonia could manifest:

• You stop wanting to spend time with friends or loved ones, instead preferring to spend time at home alone.
• The hobbies or interests that used to excite you no longer seem interesting, and you let them fall by the wayside.
• Most of the time, you don’t feel much of anything at all. You might feel numb, bored, or apathetic about life.
• Simple sensory pleasures like eating, taking a nap, smelling something pleasant, or having sex no longer seem appealing.

Keep in mind that anhedonia isn’t a universal experience for people with schizophrenia. It can range in severity and persist for varying amounts of time, depending on the person. However, if you or someone you care about is showing signs of anhedonia, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. 

Research shows that anhedonia (especially social anhedonia, where you don’t enjoy being around people) can be a predictor of schizophrenia or another psychotic disorder. With early detection, these conditions can be effectively managed, but they typically require lifelong care.

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What causes anhedonia in schizophrenia

Experts have yet to uncover the exact cause of anhedonia schizophrenia. But it appears to be linked to differences in the areas of the brain that process rewards and incite aversions. In other words, people with schizophrenia may not experience pleasurable sensations in the same ways that people without schizophrenia do. 

There’s also some evidence to suggest that there’s a genetic component to anhedonia schizophrenia, so it’s possible that it may run in families. 

Ways to overcome anhedonia

Anhedonia is considered a treatment-resistant symptom of schizophrenia. This means that it can be especially challenging to overcome, even with medication and therapy. 

However, accessing schizophrenia treatment can help you achieve the stability necessary to address your anhedonia. This typically includes a combination of therapy and medication. 

In addition, your provider may recommend self-care practices:

• Take care of your physical well-being. This includes getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, and making time for movement you enjoy. It might help to create a consistent routine and write it down on a calendar or in an app on your phone.
• Keep it simple. If motivation is limited, don’t try to tackle a big task all at once. For example, pick a cleaning or hygiene task (like unloading the dishwasher or brushing your hair), and set a timer for five minutes. You might be surprised at what you can accomplish in a short time.
• Experiment with your senses. If it’s difficult to feel pleasurable sensations, try some different tastes, sounds, or textures. For example, wrap yourself in a weighted blanket, eat something sour or spicy, or play some music you wouldn’t normally choose. Notice how your mind and body respond to the different sensations.
• Revisit something comfortable. Is there a book, TV show, or album you used to turn to for comfort or know by heart? Sometimes, revisiting something that once brought you joy can help spark pleasurable feelings. 
• Reach out (in small ways). If someone has checked in on you recently, you might not feel like responding. But remember, you don’t have to send a lengthy text or message. Look for ways to reconnect in small ways. For example, you could send a simple emoji or GIF if you’re not up for a long conversation.

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Living with anhedonia can make you lose interest in activities you used to enjoy. It can also create an overall sense of negativity or numbness that can make it difficult to function in daily life. While anhedonia can be challenging to overcome, professional treatment can increase your capacity to experience joy, rekindle your interests, and strengthen your mental health.  

At Rula, we’re committed to delivering a comprehensive behavioral health experience that helps people feel seen and understood so they can get back to feeling their best. 

Rula makes it easier to find a licensed therapist or psychiatric provider who accepts your insurance so you don’t have to choose between affordable care and excellent care. With a diverse network of more than 15,000 providers, 24/7 crisis support, and appointments available as soon as tomorrow, we’re here to help you make progress — wherever you are on your mental health journey.

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