Mental health experts explain anhedonia and how you could bounce back from this joyless state of mind.
Just about everybody has the blues from time to time.
So how can you overcome anhedonia and find your zest for again?
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Here, experts weigh in with everything it’s crucial that you know about the condition.
What Is Anhedonia?
Anhedonia is a loss or decrease of the ability to feel pleasure from things we once enjoyed.
Why Does Nothing Feel Good Anymore?
First, let’s take a look at the brain.
An important part of that communication is the feel-good neurotransmitter dopamine, which is released when we feel rewarded.
In people with anhedonia, Felger explains, these reward circuit regions may not interact as efficiently.
“Some individuals may have a genetic vulnerability to have slightly imbalanced levels of dopamine,” Ho says.
These lifestyle changes also lessen inflammation in the body and brain, so prioritizing them is key.
“Oftentimes people experience anhedonia and other symptoms of depression when they feel these social connections are weak.”
Get moving.
Get outdoors.
Limit use of electronics, starting at night.
Our electronic devices have become one of our main windows on the world, and on each other.
Treat yourself like you’d treat a best friend.
How can I show myself care and compassion?"
Becoming aware of this thinking pattern helps you start reframing defeatist thoughts with more helpful ones and actuallyincrease motivation.
Keep a thought worksheet to investigate negative thinking.
To help restructure your beliefs, Nadeau suggests keeping a thought worksheet.
Afterward, reassess your moods without judgement.
Replace negative thoughts with neutral ones.
Besides evaluating your negative thoughts, take the time to create neutral thoughts to counter them, says Nadeau.
Keep a daily record of things you’re grateful for.
attempt to do this each day, even if you write down only one or two things.
Try doing something you used to enjoy.
Start with small, manageable bursts of time, spending 15 minutes watching a TV show or walking outside.
Seek out therapy when needed.
Try mindfulness.
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