Anhedonia EXPLAINED: Why You Can't Enjoy Life | Dr. Rami Nader

Anhedonia is a common symptom of depression and it is characterized by a loss of interest and pleasure in almost all of your usual activities. Anhedonia can sap the color and joy out of life, leaving a person feeling unfulfilled and disengaged from life. It does this by making it difficult for a person to experience joy and pleasure in activities that they used to enjoy doing. Additionally, anhedonia can make it so that you have little motivation or interest in doing previously enjoyed activities. As a result, you experience less pleasure our of life and have less drive to do things that you once enjoyed doing. So, you stop doing these activities (because you no longer experience joy or pleasure in doing them) and this, in turn, makes depression worse. So, the symptom of anhedonia in depression is one of the factors that maintains the depression and makes it worse, creating a negative spiral.
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8215 (47)

[@connorsnickers1]

At this point my life consists of me sleeping and sleeping and sleeping for crazy hours until I get mad at myself for wasting my life sleeping but still have no motivation or interest in doing anything so I’ll just do it again the next day, only thing that gets me up is work

[@Moll7718]

Me too, except that I have no work. Some period, it is like I live in the Matrix. Like I am living my life out doing stuff in my dreams instead of me being out there in the real world doing real life stuff

[@Viilap]

Sleeping isn't a waste of time unless u got rid of bags under your eyes already

[@MOSP14]

Shit, this is me

[@23for82bigs]

I've slept many days away this same way, I promise you it will get better eventually, it has for me, I'm still struggling but I see the light at the end of the tunnel.

[@connorsnickers1]

@@emu1028 hey man, don’t lose hope, I posted that comment a year ago and can say life has absolutely improved, some days I have less motivation and some days I’m fired up! But it will get better, just keep fighting for what you want and never give up, you can do it, don’t lose hope!

[@cdcaterham]

I have had this my whole life... I get obsessed with activities, sports etc to keep my.mind occupied and fill the void but end up never wanting to do them ever again. Same with foods. Currently I go to work which I enjoy very much and gives me some sense of worth but come home and want to do absolutely nothing but go to my bed. Weekends are just torture.

[@SMSBJM1981]

Yes, weekends are oddly difficult. I feel I should be doing something. If not doing something I should be working. I feel like doing something is a waste of time but I waste time doing nothing.

[@thunderpooch]

Lol, you enjoy work. What a slave

[@asherlamping2118]

@@thunderpooch and bro that's kinda messed up to say that

[@patriciavandevelde5469]

Gime a call! Lonely to but happy!

[@tman5634]

@@SMSBJM1981 I feel exactly the same as you Brandon.

[@noracoyle4988]

Never heard of this word before, I suffered with this all my life no joy in anything and feeling sad and jealous when others are happy and enjoying life.

[@DrRamiNader]

Did you get a chance to watch the follow up video discussing ways of coping with anhedonia?

[@rebeckaa2854]

Me too

[@921ster]

I have both depression and anhedonia. I experience all the symptoms that you mentioned. It is affecting my personal life, my health, and marriage. I wouldn’t wish this on my worst enemy. It has taken all the enjoyment from my life. I’m irritable, lack patience, and feel overly angry and frustrated most of the time. There is rarely any quality of life with depression, and when you add anhedonia it becomes pointless. You want to fight, but you have no energy or motivation. They do feed off the other, it’s an endless cycle.

[@pretty-eyes]

Same here. You exist not live. I had my medicines increased 9days ago waiting for a miracle to happen since nothing worked on me. 😢

[@921ster]

You exist, but it’s not enjoyable at all. Everything is affected. Every experience seems pointless. There is something called Anhedonia, it’s a symptom of depression. I believe I am suffering from this. You cannot feel pleasure, and that is exactly how I feel. Hope your situation improves.

[@klanderkal]

Same here...!! This is horrible and horrifying. Depression is multi terrible. Life was good b4...

[@lisaalexander1824]

I only got this at 63, aging sux cuz I let my health go..being bi polar doesn't help either..meds slow you down...so we don't get anxiety..

[@michaeltwister]

Your voice itself is a medicine ♥️ Thanks doctor

[@DrRamiNader]

Thank you for the kind words Michael. I'm glad you find the videos helpful.

[@TwistedSister1234]

I went on a beach holiday recently, took walks and looked at priceless views that I couldn't enjoy, castigating myself for being ungrateful. My doctor prescribed Citalopram, an antidepressant, to which I had a good response initially but it doesn't seem to work anymore, and anhedonia and insomnia are eroding my peace of mind. I am glad to have discovered this channel, to have read the comments from others whose experiences have resonated with me. Dr Nader's next presentation talks about ways to mitigate and manage anhedonia which I have taken to heart.

[@jaynestagg9460]

Went to a park with my husband, son and grandson last week. Just going through the motions, 2 hours and I had to go home and spent the rest of the day in bed.😞 I don't want to be like this.😞

[@DrRamiNader]

Sorry to hear you are having a difficult time. Did you get a chance to watch the follow-up video on managing anhedonia (kzbin.info/www/bejne/roubiph9jdSHptE) Take care.

[@nana_untamed]

I know it's like you get so tired your brain your body

[@divyanshjajoo6564]

Cure?

[@davidkrause6861]

I'm sorry to hear that

[@lisaalexander1824]

I have no gut health, so I can't do much...go out for 2 hours then crash into deep sleep for 3 hours in the arvo..I'm not diabetic, apparently...zoloft HAS fried my brain and gut...very toxic

[@chowceo]

The whole video is a definition of the topic. I am more depressed listening to what I already know all to much.

[@sumbae7668]

Today my favourite artist followed me back and although I wanted to feel something and tried to be happy I just couldn't feel anything. I've had depressions all my life but this is the first time I completely lost interest in everything. I haven't laughed in at least 5 years. Everyone even my psychiatrist can't or want to see it. When I say I don't feel a thing they tell me but you seem so positive. But truth is I feel dead inside. I used to paint and read a lot, I still paint but it doesn't feel good or anything. I just do things now because I have to do something I guess

[@danjones3009]

As an artist myself, I know how you feel. I'm there too. This Dr. Seems to give me hope. I hope you feel better too. 🍁💛

[@qieenalubya]

I feel you, I used to love drawing but now I don't enjoy it like I used to, I faked my laugh all the time, it feels like being dead inside of a living body and I'm just here to take care of this body, I hope we can get through this, just know that you're not alone and there's nothing wrong with you

[@bunsenn5064]

I’ve been spending a lot of time working on myself and my life, and being the best possible version of me. And yet seemingly, there is no payoff to any of it. It feels like nothing I do will ever be enough for the universe.

[@ladonnamontalto917]

Wow that’s amazing. I always said after my mom passed, it was like all the color drained from life. That’s the best way I could explain what the emptiness felt like. Don’t really care much about anything anymore and the world just keeps getting dimmer. I’ve been struggling for 13 years, just trying to enjoy my children and the small things but it has felt like a losing battle lately. It feels more than depression. Life just feels like an annoyance and something I have to face every day instead of enjoy. Of course I’m grateful for my health and my children. Just wanting to vent. Thanks for this video 💜

[@DrRamiNader]

Glad you found the video helpful. I wish you the best in your efforts to feel better. Take care!

[@Moll7718]

I feel same way! Like life becomes meh. Like I have nothing to look forward to. Like what's the point of doing stuff? I often just lay on my bed staring at the wall for hours instead of doing you know stuff like hobbies and socializing. been like this for years now, just same as you.

[@emmalouie1663]

My mother is evil she has drained the color from my life since the day I was born.

[@sarahmarie24773]

@@emmalouie1663🙌🏼😢🙌🏼

[@truthseek3017]

Slaves to your insecurities and responsibilities.

[@christinepolacek1116]

Death of someone you really loved can bring this on ; my Mom died over 2 yrs ago … I cannot cope with it I feel no pleasure in anything I used to do , I am also alone in the world which has contributed to it I’m sure

[@DrRamiNader]

I am sorry for your loss.

[@pietpompiepompiepiet940]

My father passed 3months ago. I was always depressed some times but coped but the past 3months it has become really really bad lost interest in everything seeing dr for meds after 45 years as it really became big problem for me.

[@Suff2Say]

Hi, I've been diagnosed and living with major depressive disorder for around 23 years; same with anhedonia for around 15 years; and that's how I get by - I just live with them. They are difficult and potentially hazardous conditions to try to fight. I take whatever enjoyment I can get out of what I do. It's definitely harder now that I'm older, because I'm trying to do new things, and naturally when you're a beginner at something, you suck at it. I find myself plateuing and unmotivated to commit to a routine (I'm not good at routine or structure in any part of my life really; it worries me that that's part of my philosophy on life, and it didn't used to be, even though I understand, intellectually, the benefits of having a routine) or work through a whole course of instruction. I end up constantly redoing things I've done before. Bit of a mixture of fear of failure, "what's the point" and generally struggling to (a) remember things, (b) think for myself, or even (c) think at all, or like, monitor my thinking, is what I mean. I used to have glimpses of lucidity where I could attempt to freestyle rap based on just catching the thoughts that were in my head, for example, but now, not a chance. Things I redo might be playing the same old things on guitar, for example, and not seeing through a course of instruction. Thinking for myself might have been remembering chess patterns and going through chess principles as I played, but now, not a chance. I understand the argument, "Don't feel bad, it's not you, the conditions themselves, depression and anhedonia, are the reasons you don't enjoy what you used to enjoy doing", but it's not just that. I can't do what I used to enjoy doing anymore, like play basketball, tennis or indoor cricket. I smoked too much and ate too much crap in my late teens and early to mid-20s (still eat too much crap) which messed up my lungs and I'm too overweight, weak and in pain or at risk of injury to do what I used to be able to do on the courts before. That's what's depressing and there's no getting around it. I think I've just come to accept that I have to deal with the consequences of my actions. And ... it sucks balls. I'll always have my sense of humour though.

[@PabloCruise9398]

I hear you. Same exact shit with me. I have a heart condition so my motivation and energy levels are complete shit. No interest in shit. I used to indulge in bad habits and I now pay the consequences. Never had much structure in life other than living by an all gas no break mentality. I'm 46 yrs old and feel like I'm 70. Everything sucks now... Nothing excites me I have no drive or ambition... The only thing that keeps me sane is being able to laugh at shit...

[@Pjayque]

I indulged in bad habits to keep going for 50 yrs

[@yianhinsaechao7898]

DUDE..your voice is so soothing....... U EXPLAINED everything about ME.. NOTHING EXCITES ME ANYMORE..NOT even,SHOPPING..

[@DrRamiNader]

I'd encourage you to take a look at the follow-up video, discussing things that can be done to overcome anhedonia: kzbin.info/www/bejne/roubiph9jdSHptE

[@DJGENOTYPE]

I don't even look forward to weekends anymore. I play video games just so I can escape my life. I haven't had friends in years, and when I did, I really didn't enjoy myself when I did go out. Felt more like a chore than anything else. Every night I just keep wondering why am I still here.

[@DrRamiNader]

Sorry to hear you are having such a difficult time. Have you had a chance to watch the follow-up video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/roubiph9jdSHptE Hopefully it can give you some ideas that might help. Take care.

[@DJGENOTYPE]

@@DrRamiNader I watched your other video, so I started to ride my bike again today. My goal was to just get out and ride for a few minutes. I’ll keep doing the same daily and increase my times.

[@DrRamiNader]

That's exactly how it works! Good luck and I hope you build some positive momentum going forward.

[@dorianhazel7491]

@@DJGENOTYPE I was just reading your comments and wondered how you are doing?

[@DJGENOTYPE]

@@dorianhazel7491 still struggling. But I have been successful by forcing myself out and doing things that I liked. Once I’m out there on good. It’s just tough to get going though

[@Abiding77]

I didn’t know there was a name. Thank you.

[@DrRamiNader]

You're very welcome!

[@jarogniewtheconqueror2804]

The only thing I can still enjoy despite anhedonia is a warm bath. But art, going out with friends, reading or even sleeping is all unbearable as my dreams also feel numb

[@DrRamiNader]

Sorry to hear you are having a difficult time with this. Have you had a chance to watch the follow-up to this video, which looks at ways of managing anhedonia - kzbin.info/www/bejne/roubiph9jdSHptE

[@jarogniewtheconqueror2804]

@@DrRamiNader Not yet, I will have a look at it

[@victorialewis5332]

I've been considering going back on anti depressants because I can't cope with feeling nothing. I don't enjoy anything and it makes me feel so ashamed and guilty, this has opened my eyes but what's the way out

[@kaylafreebird]

I just feel numb all the time, can’t feel any emotions and its really hard to feel motivated to do things. It’s been like this for two years...do antipsychotics cause this?

[@DrRamiNader]

Hi Kayla - I'm a psychologist, so psychiatric medications are not an area I have experience in or can comment on.

[@donovanscabbia6770]

Dr Nadir thank you for your videos. By the way you should start your own ASMR KZbin channel. Your voice is so calming. As someone with anxiety and depression ASMR is so helpful to help relax.

[@DrRamiNader]

Hi Donovan, thank you for your kind and encouraging words. Apparently my voice is quite polarizing - some people find it calm and soothing and other people have commented that they hate it. It's just my voice, so not much I can do about it. Thanks for supporting the channel!

[@dinkylovesbooks]

@@DrRamiNader No, your voice is one of the reasons I subscribed to your channel. I hate loud sounds and I also have anxiety, so I appreciate the pace and volume you speak at, and also the sibilance, strangely enough 😄 Not to mention that you're kind and empathetic about what people go through, instead of yelling like a gym coach in the name of 'motivation'.

[@carlososcarcomedy]

Bro your voice gave me Anhedonia.

[@1971wizzard]

I have had this feeling for decades too, after a Bi Polar episode when I was 18… I am now 50 having had a further two admissions to hospital… I absolutely loved to draw and paint I trained as a designer but since the episodes I have no interest in life in general…. I do have anticipatory lifted mood but when it comes to the actual pastimes I go off the idea and just sit around… beating myself up later for not having taken the time to do said activity. I constantly fight with myself about doing stuff then I feel guilt when I don’t pursue said activities

[@DrRamiNader]

Sorry to hear you're having a difficult time. Have you had an opportunity to watch the follow-up video on managing Anhedonia? You can find it here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/roubiph9jdSHptE

[@DihelsonMendonca]

The same with me for 5 years now. I try hard to do some things, I prepare everything, but it's about to begin, I just sit down, and think "it doesn't worth a pity. I can't enjoy, and nobody else care about it too, so why doing it ?". Later, I feel guilty for not having done it, and feel I'm not worthwhile, and my life is a mess, abd all life is all about suffering abd struggle. We are all doomed, because nothing we do will last. We are doomed to oblivion, it's correct, but before my depression, I never looked this way. I feel my thoughts about life are not wrong, life is suffering and struggle, but while we are here, let's have some fun. The problem is that I can't have fun anymore, or just a little bit from time to time.

[@cruz25617]

I'm about as low as low can be without the thought of suicide. Thats one thing id never do. But i genuinely do not enjoy anything, and feel so far behind in life. I regret so much, have a strong passion for the past, am extremely nostalgic, and absolutely hate everything life is now. I dislike where i'm at in life. I hate being a father. I just do not enjoy it. I live my child, but never envisioned myself to be in this position where i do not care for fatherhood. I have no interests in anything i used to enjoy. My environment has changed, people came and went, family have grown old or died, and relationships i no longer care for. I am not seeking love. I enjoy being alone. I hate my living situation. I am suffering financially. Inhave to jump through hoops and hurdles, just to get to where everyone else is at in standard. I feel trapped in my city. It doesn't matter where i go, i hate it. Nothing surprises me anymore. I hate being around the same environment, the same people, doing the same things. My anxiety and depression doesn't allow me to be myself. I know far too much to enjoy living in Blissful ignorance. So i can't enjoy relationships anymore knowing everything i know now. I feel numb. Trapped. Stuck. Nowhere to go. Imprisoned. I understand it's a mentality thing. I'm very into psychology. But even i need help in these areas. No matter where i walk, i never feel change. I want to change. I want change. I desire it. I desire a fresh new everything. I want to get away. I crave it with a passion. That's the only thing i feel passionate about, is leaving everything and everyone behind. Abandoning everything. Abadoning the life i have now, to start a new life somewhere else. A fresh start. Maybe in Japan. It's my dream. I fantasize about this everyday. For year's. For more than 20+ year's. And yet, i am nowhere near close to achieving this. I havent even scratched the surface. I am completely overwhelmed. It feels so far away, my goals... And i'm not getting any younger. I hate myself. I hate everything. Mentally and emotionally, ive far exceeded what i used to be back then. I've gained so much knowledge. The downsode is it took far too long and late in life to acquire this. I missed out ony younger year's. Injust want to no longer waste anymore time. I want to progress and move forward. And until i can somehow pull through, i will forever remain in this state of consciousness. I've tried. I am trying to move forward. But it seems i can't get there. I don't know what else to do. At this point, it's all about maintaining my sanity. No, i am not, nor will i ever be in a horrid state of mind of self harm or harming of other's. That is just not who i am. Absolutely not. But i am definitely not living my life. I am not happy. And when folks say "then do something about it", what they fail to acknowledge is i have. For whatever reason, progress isn't budging. Regardless of how hard i work for it. It's enough to drive one mad. Now what? What do i do? I have nothing else in mind. Nothing. That is all i want...

[@bsammy1215]

I have suddenly lost my passion for many things I used to enjoy like traveling , and meeting new people , ive been cutting communication with my friends I don’t know why , I thought because I’ve been through lots of COVID isolation and social distance . But this is all over now , and I still can’t feel any passion for anything . I have traveled to break that Anhedonia mood , I couldn’t . For the first time ever , I felt homesick and wanted to spend my time in my hotel room . I just don’t know when I’m I going to see myself and to see the world in colours again …

[@montesa9136]

@Dalia Sammy - For me, anhedonia just got worse with age. I'm now 65, & looking forward to physician assisted suicide

[@s.ranjithkumar7679]

Recently I have this doctor,not able to focus next minute of life.. really feeling worthless..but earlier I have really enjoyed every second of life but now really worsening the situation..

[@amirkabado6570]

Very helpful explanation for understanding the depression symptoms and the best start to overcome the depression 🙂

[@DrRamiNader]

Hi Amir, glad you found the video helpful!

[@ashleysalazar2012]

What if you have never enjoyed anything

[@xex615]

Watch this video on 2x speed or read this summary. (He repeats things like 5 to 10 times slightly differently even though they have the same exact meaning) Anhedonia is a symptom of depression. Anhedonia strips enjoyment and motivation / engagement The stripping of enjoyment and wondering why you don't enjoy anything or if there's something wrong with you makes the depression worse When the depression gets worse the anhedonia which is a symptom of the depression also gets worse. They just keep making each other worse and worse like a loop if kept unchecked And next video he will repeat things over and over about how to deal with anhedonia You're welcome for saving you 10 minutes of your life

[@markbrooke1439]

That's me, I'll watch part 2 now.

[@Suttisan78]

Mine was caused by an SSRI (Sertraline) 7 years ago, the only thing that could help (Parnate / Nardil) are refused by the same GP that ruined my life with the SSRI which also made me suicidal.

[@firstandlastname6601]

My only concern is that I hope that this is not a permanent thing or will go on for months, on the flip side I am liking it because for once in my life I am existing for me. I am not concerned about what I HAVE to do, I am not being hard on myself either and have stoped the inner critic. If it doesn't happen It doesn't happen.I don't put expectations on anything or anyone anymore. I am feeling peace. My real concern is WHAT DO I WANT.

[@dan-pn2eu]

Nothing is fun in 2020-2021

[@heyhellohi7420]

Are there people that are experiencing this that don't even have jobs or pressure to make a lot of money to survive? Or don't have some sort of terrible debilitating illness? Because I didn't start experiencing these things until after college and had to start working 60 hours a week just to give every cent away on bills. I dont have the energy or money to fund the hobbies I enjoyed as a kid. I jave 1 day off a week so it's not a shocker that seeing friends would be a chore. When your mind is in survival mode when your one lost paycheck away from losing necessary things for basic life, then your brain does not have the space for leisure or creativity anymore. That has become a privilege. You can't do that when there's so much pressure.

[@federicomoriero8434]

Antidepressants caused me permanent anhedonia and sexual disfunctions. I have PSSD, Post SSRI Sexual Dysfunction.

[@katryanaorange2092]

Which antidepressant did you take? I'm about to start taking lexapro for anhedonia and I'm nervous... are you feeling any better?

[@admk5144]

@@katryanaorange2092 dont take meds improve diet

[@christineklutts3082]

Same

[@qwuantum]

Literally crying watching it... Im 14 and all my life before this year everything was so enjoyfull but now that dissapear I dont see any sense

[@edwardholzman7055]

Dear Dr. Nader, Started watching your videos a couple of moths ago. Got used to you explaining some form of affliction and always (Am I wrong?) spending an appropriate amount of time at the end talking on WHAT TO DO ABOUT IT. Still a fan but this listener found you way over explaining the issue (we know if we have it). Then, to my disappointment you ended the video, the most important part, with “see you next week”! Your soft delivery and voice is nice - but remember, at large, you are talking to adults.

[@DrRamiNader]

Hi Edward - this was the first of a 2 part mini series on anhedonia. The second video talks about what people can do to manage it and that can be found here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/roubiph9jdSHptE

[@Msnoshh30]

Yes this is me. I haven’t really enjoyed myself in a long time. It feels like I’m living just to be living.

[@amyt6254]

Your videos have such great information. Thank you!

[@DrRamiNader]

Thank you for your kind and encouraging words.

[@bryansipes4292]

This fits me to a T At 65 years old it's painful!((

[@DrRamiNader]

Hi Bryan - I'd encourage you to take a look at the follow up video, if you haven't already: kzbin.info/www/bejne/roubiph9jdSHptE

[@UGPVlogsLA]

@@DrRamiNader I’ll also check this video out. I’ve now got to the point where self care has long left me, I’m honestly falling apart, I feel so dead inside. And it’s getting to a point where I don’t care about anything. I don’t talk to friends anymore either. Everything you’re saying in this video is describing my situation to a T. I’m actually bawling my eyes out listening to you.

[@DrRamiNader]

@@UGPVlogsLA I'm sorry to hear you are having such a difficult time. I wish you all the best in your efforts to feel better.

[@Nomad416]

I seem to be one of the few people that question why we're supposed to enjoy life in the first place.

[@DrinkMilkCunt]

How the fuck do I know what makes me happy?!

[@christinepolacek1116]

I know I have this , could be brought on by loss and trauma

[@merylwalkley8087]

Yes definitely,,

[@velerina2017]

The worst part is i dont tjink i ever loved or enjoyed anything. Im 21 and i don't remember the last time i enjoyed. Even as a teenager or as a kid

[@Moll7718]

Great explanation. Wish I knew about this many years ago. Do you know where I can get an good explanation of anhedonia in American Sign Language. I am Deaf and I struggle to find explanation of certain mental illnesses in ASL. Do you have anything on dysthymia too? I think.I have that as well.

[@TheCutekiwi]

Struggling a lot with this. Long story short I haven’t enjoyed anything for close to a year. It’s really hard to just get out of bed. I’m going to keep trying to do the things I used to enjoy as I desperately want to have fun again and laugh.

[@giuseppeLizzi-rj3er]

I cooked for a living my life has completely changed I feel odd

[@uttermostvids631]

I wish my phycologist was like you,you seem to understand where I am in life while she seems to love to talk about emotions only and prescribe medications and none of which has helped me at all I just feel like I'm wasting away unable to accomplish the things I want it's so far out of reach and really is impossible

[@DrRamiNader]

I'm sorry to hear you are having a difficult time and I hope you feel better soon. If you haven't already, I'd encourage you to take a look at some of the other depression videos I've posted and hope they help a little: kzbin.info/aero/PLG_XiSJeP3s1xOWOVHDMBPWjZImyu8M8d

[@uttermostvids631]

@@DrRamiNader thanks it really does mean alot to me to know that I have an ally

[@jbjelle-_-6072]

I had a bunch a of hobby’s and was always happy about but the last few years have just been awfull. I dont want to do anything anymore just lay in my bed and think/sleep/ on my phone. I dont look forward to anything. I went to a therapist and she just said i had a mild form of depression but it hasn’t fixed anything.

[@vladislavkaras491]

Great information! Thank you for the video!

[@DrRamiNader]

You're very welcome!

[@gabrielhawk]

Thank you very much!

[@DrRamiNader]

You're welcome!

[@nicolasflamm]

I do have a cuestion regarding this, but I don't know if it will make sense. The thing is, searching for "joy" has always felt like nonesense to me. The illusion of being is a brain trick, everything just passes and eventually I will also pass. I think I have lived like some sort of complex mechanism that is forced to do things that are also just mechanic chores based on nothing but cultural repetition. So, from a very young age, that idea of joyless iterations to achieve some sort of emotion that is in itself another form of joyless, nonsensicall iteration, was just engraved as the only true. I can't understand emotion as anything else. I feel my existence as another random bunch of sensations with human format, a copy of a copy of a copy that will also fade away. The question being: can you prove me wrong? Because I truly think this to be the only realistic way to exist. It does bring some pain, but even that makes me feel nothing; deep down I know that is just another illusion.

[@DrRamiNader]

Hi Nicolas - these deeper philosophical concepts are not my are of expertise. I'm a psychologist, not a philosopher or theologian. So I can only come at this from the psychology perspective. It's not for everyone, but hope that it helps people who can relate to it.

[@nicolasflamm]

@@DrRamiNader Thanks for the answer. It actually helps; too much people tell me to go to therapy (I actually went, 4 different times, it was obviously useless). Your comment and the way you frame therapy as something that must be relatable is very very concise. At least now I can tell them to shut up without using those words.

[@DrRamiNader]

@@nicolasflamm Thanks for your insights. Therapy only works if the person is interested and motivated to engage in therapy. If they are there because of someone else wanting them to be there, that's typically not a great predictor of successful therapy.

[@nicolasflamm]

@@DrRamiNader I had to try. I actually went with no attitude other than listen. It just didn't make sense, all 4 times, different types of therapy and all that. It did had some sort of effect, just not the one I believe people expected.

[@Vita-a-stelle-e-strisce]

I would like to read stories or novels on people with anhedonia. Suggestions? I think I might have a light form of it.

[@playstation2670]

I’m going through it right now nothing brings me joy things that used to make me happy doesn’t anymore

[@DrRamiNader]

I wish you the best in your efforts to feel better.

[@tanubjain6781]

I'm going through this for 3years now n idk how feeling of happiness would seem like,pls help me get out of this.

[@toaka5568]

i think i have some kind of this anhedonia, when I'm alone at home i always feel depressed and bored, i think maybe if i went out and when i hang out with freinds or poeple i love but even if i did i just feel anxious and dissatisfied with the world around me for no reason it's really anoying its like i can't enjoy anything anymore like happiness is just isn't for me... and i feal guilty because i might be boring or annoying to my freinds and ruin their day with my mood inside i want to feel better but i can't and it hurts i don't know how to be happy even if i tried i hope god help me get through this i wish life after highschool would be better than this

[@DrRamiNader]

Sorry to hear you are having a difficult time. Take care.

[@v25485]

Oh my gosh it is the same for me!!

[@DrRamiNader]

@@v25485 You might want to take a look at the follow-up to this video about ways of overcoming anhedonia: kzbin.info/www/bejne/roubiph9jdSHptE

[@TG47GRG]

I feel the same way. I hope you are making progress. You deserve it.

[@rebeckaa2854]

The soundtrack of my life

[@ronaldpuran4271]

Thank you Doctor for the awesome message!

[@DrRamiNader]

Glad you found the video helpful!

[@antobioety4386]

The first cause of anhedonia are PSYCH MEDS!

[@MissBliss818]

@@antobioety4386 I’m not on any medication and I’ve been in this state for about 5 years. I’m afraid to take medication because I hear this is the issue. I’ve briefly tried stuff before and I still felt nothing. Lexapro actually made me feel worse. Im not on anything now and I was like this for 3 years before I started taking medication.however, I only tried antidepressants for 6-8 months. I really wanna try again, but I’m so scared about feeling nothing but more intensely.

[@shykale]

I literally dont enjoy anything, i cant figure out my life because i dont have feelings towards anything, i feel like my life has been put on hold, like im just rotting away, i dont know what to do anymore, i cant even converse with people anymore, i never know how to respond, i have no thoughts going through my mind

[@klanderkal]

Hi... Im feeling the same. I cannot even go outside,.. or do anything at all. I had a major loss in my life that destroyed me... I didn't know stress, anxiety and insomnia would happen. Now,.. I have anhedonic depression. No desire or enjoyment in anything. How is your sleep ?

[@klanderkal]

Hi. I'm so the same.!! I lost interests in everything also. I'm not doing well... it's horrible!!!!! No motivation, no want and desire. Like quicksand... how is your sleep?

[@shykale]

@@klanderkal im sorry to hear that, Im not sure what has caused this for me honestly, i had a manic episode back in july of last year and ended up getting a shot that was too high of a dosage and have felt this way ever since, ive been able to sleep normally this whole time though, i may sleep a bit too much, i hope things get better for you, its really hard because a lot of people dont relate even when they think they do

[@klanderkal]

@shykale Thank you for sharing and caring. I'm really not doing well., also still cannot sleep. My eyesight has turned blurry also. That's really upsetting me more. I'm having a difficult time living... Hope we can survive and get better

[@shykale]

@@klanderkal i hope stuff gets better for you man, maybe a doctor can give you something to help with sleep

[@TheKhashix]

Didn’t think it’d mean so much to see a fellow BC Boy talking about what I struggle with. Turns out it does. Do you have any suggestions, or tips and tricks to find therapist that works for you? I’ve gone through at least 11 by now and I really want to be able to find one that really sticks with me, not only to not leave more in the dust due to my own personal turmoil.

[@DrRamiNader]

That's a good question, but unfortunately I don't have a good answer because finding the right therapist requires a good interpersonal fit, which is a very personal thing. From my perspective, i always suggest finding a therapist who works primarily with cognitive behavioral therapy. A lot of therapists will say they do CBT, but if CBT is only one of many therapeutic approaches they offer, then chances are they don't specialize in CBT. Also, I'd be wary of the therapist that treats every condition imaginable, across all age ranges. The therapist can't be a specialist in everything. Hope that makes sense. Good luck!

[@TheKhashix]

@@DrRamiNader Thanks a ton, I'll keep that in mind when I visit my doctor next week ♥

[@jonathanjollimore4794]

Bin here for a year with built up to that year fun

[@goku5618]

I'm lost interest anything in my life, I don't know how to i keep going my partner without hurt her, I'm starting to losing do like we us together always do. Lose feeling toward her :(

[@klanderkal]

"There is something wrong with me "... as i STRESSED 24/7.. over retirement, I was able to stop it. I was So Happy... then, i looked in the mirror with my uniform on... as i looked @ myself, and said "oh no, i cannot got back looking like this.!! ( i stressed for 15 day's! Couldn't sleep, had insomnia with Bad sleep deprivation, lost weight, got sick ).. in the mirror I LOST MY MIND..!! I STARTED FREAKING OUT! I CAN'T GO BACK! I ran to the phone, and retired myself..!! I did what? I DIDN'T want to retire, but in my Stressed, sleepless self,.. i called and retired myself.!! I cannot believe i did that!!!! I went into Horrible depression!!, Anxiety, insomnia, Regret, Anhedonia... and self hate. Im suffering So bad!! Unable to even go outside, do anything at all,.. and no pleasure doing anything i used to. How?.. how could i do that to myself?.. i did everything i could NOT to retire, then during my stressed out moment, i call and retire myself.!! How? Why?... That frame of mind I LOST it....... I cannot get my position back... and all i do is think of that moment. How i ruined my life. [ i wouldn't of had to return immediately, i could have got well first., got my weight back, seen a therapist for the stress..THEN return. But my mind redacted Negatively and panicked, i couldn't stop and realize what I was doing..).. 😮

[@kfc6573]

Thank you. Great content. What’s the treatment ?

[@DrRamiNader]

I did a follow up video and you can find that here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/roubiph9jdSHptE

[@madman107killer8]

that it explains it, i went sky diving and jet boating on my 18th and didnt feel a thing.. video games havent given me pleasure since i was a early teen, im not suicidal, but what is the point? honestly, what is the point!

[@DrRamiNader]

I'd encourage you to take a look at my video on overcoming Anhedonia, if you haven't already: kzbin.info/www/bejne/roubiph9jdSHptE

[@divyanshjajoo6564]

4 months, any cure?

[@nana_untamed]

Men I've been like this since 2017 I'm trying 😩 I hate that I don't remember that well what made me happy

[@DrRamiNader]

Hi Nana - sorry to hear you are having a difficult time. The key is to keep trying. Have you taken a look at the follow-up to this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/roubiph9jdSHptE

[@Thelostmcmotorcycleclub]

If life would go my way and things didnt always wrong then i would enjoy life. I suck at everything and i only enjoy things if im the best at it. I dont enjoy the journey of getting better it’s actually very boring bc it goes wrong and it takes too long. It isnt my fault that i hate life. Its life’s fault for hating me

[@adenabrooks4939]

Does anyone know of any holistic remedies for anhedonia?

[@shiarafigoni1464]

Manuca purines

[@fredhartman1325]

Many of us would find value in your thoughts about how covid mandates, leading to job loss, career destruction, financial loss, have harmed the mental health of so many, pushing a person toward anhedonia.

[@vaporwingfauxmcloud1190]

What angers me the most is that all I see are these "explanation" videos on what we have and the same answers to a question so delicate as "How to fix depression". I get that we often wanna hear things we wanna hear but these explanation videos are just so you can help a therapist who you have to pay to get a "treatment" that will only go so far. What makes this worse is that its extremely hard to keep depression away especially when others don't contribute to ridding ourselves with said depression. Imagine getting rid of depression having to sacrifice the people you love just to get better. I know family sucks sometimes but sometimes it takes more than yourself to rid of mental illness. Which some of us do not have because people don't wanna be around depressed people unless you grew up with your friends or significant other. Humans are too selfish to care about keeping someone from harming themselves or unaliving themselves for the sake of "Being busy" with our brainwashed day to day lifestyles of caring for famile, going to our 9 to 5s, buying material things and trying our hardest to not help someone in need just because "it doesn't look cool to certain people". Society isn't sh*t out of the idea of materialism. Society is sh*t because everyone thinks that some rich arseholes are 100% truthful and we should do what they say even though the desire for money is literally killing the earth and people in society. Imagine being worth less than an object like a piece of paper with value or shiny objects that we flaunt around.

[@rmh5021]

I was hoping to get an answer to the question in the title. You just explained the connection between depression and anhedonia, not why depression is causing you to not enjoy life … do you have an answer to that?

[@DrRamiNader]

Depression prevents a person from doing things they enjoy doing, it sap's pleasure out of life, it causes a person to think negatively about themselves, the world and their future and it creates a sense of hopelessness to change any of that.

[@Exposingmominos]

Please i want some help I loved to dance everyday but after some days now i have stopped doing it. Yesterday i wanted to dance so hard but i was dancing but not enjoying. I wanted to sing but i have stopped singing. I'm happy I'm not depressed nor i feel like i don't know what's wrong.😭 please help

[@bhaskardora8130]

Which tablets can I use for anhedonia ? I am from india. I'm suffering from anhedonia

[@DrRamiNader]

I am not a psychiatrist, so I cannot comment about medications.

[@bhaskardora8130]

@@DrRamiNader okay thanks 4 ur reply

[@bhaskardora8130]

@@DrRamiNader anhedonia is curable or not ?

[@DrRamiNader]

I did a follow up video on managing anhedonia and you can find that one here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/roubiph9jdSHptE

[@katryanaorange2092]

It's curable don't give up. Try L-tryptophan (it's a supplement since you asked what meds could help)

[@lb1798]

Is it possible that a person can be born and have brain deficiency like low dopamine? My mother had a miscarriage right before she had me ...got PREGNANT with me RIGHT AWAY and her body may have been deficient. I dont know that Ive ever felt real joy? Is that possible??

[@armandobernal8991]

So, after a long run of disappointment, addiction and incarceration,I have an understandable amount of apathy. But my issue is that I have an opposite reaction as far as my drug use. I'm working towards sobriety but I'm not there. So,most people are miserable minus the substance (Meth,in my case) .I can't find any enjoyment or pleasure when I use. I've been working on it myself and making some progress but I didn't understand what was going on with me,it took forever to find anything explaining it from that perspective. Any advice or material you can direct me to would be appreciated. I look forward to hearing back from you and thank you for your good work

[@DrRamiNader]

Hi Armando, thank you for sharing your experiences. Unfortunately, I don't know a lot about addictions, as it's not an area of expertise for me. That being said, you may want to explore the concept of motivational interviewing and motivational enhancement - that's an approach that has been used for decades to address addictions.

[@armandobernal8991]

@@DrRamiNader I just wanted to say thank you again and let you know that I employ plenty of motivational processes on a daily basis. It's hard,but what is more worth it, right? I'm going to continue learning from your videos and making others aware of your content. Thanks again

[@liljuz1981]

why ever enjoy anything if I'll just inevitably feel worse after. I'm ready to leave this world and I have the roadmap

[@ronaldrobinson5345]

thank you

[@DrRamiNader]

Hi Ronald - you're welcome!

[@sobanabbasi2294]

I didn't feel any thing joy empathy love every emotions no interest in any thing no motivation in past any thing like my heart is dead

[@maureenmcnamee1407]

Can’t find part 2!!! Can you help?

[@DrRamiNader]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/roubiph9jdSHptE

[@MoniNayo]

Helpful

[@DrRamiNader]

👍

[@PROLOLZZ]

i'm so alone i dont enjoy anything anymore what is the point of doing something when you're always alone

[@DrRamiNader]

Sometimes engaging in activities even though a person does not want to actually brings them into contact with others.

[@astronauttheoceangod2357]

Bro I literally can’t get excited it’s like my brain broken

[@cernatrares1]

What if I enjoy chilling out all the time? 😅

[@marchellagulino533]

Can u go back to normal or no is there cure

[@reilwaystation9511]

Is there any medicine for this? My job is being affected here. It started long ago when my mom put me in a Christian School

[@DrRamiNader]

Hi Ian - sorry to hear you are having a difficult time. As I am a psychologist, I don't have expertise in psychiatric medications, so I can't provide any direction about that.

[@DrRamiNader]

If you haven't already, I'd encourage you to take a look at my follow up video on how to manage Anhedonia: kzbin.info/www/bejne/roubiph9jdSHptE

[@AnaFerreira-zi4un]

Can this be overcome quickly?

[@DrRamiNader]

It usually takes time, as it typically does not come on quickly. But everyone is different.

[@atheamarcosamir5633]

Repetition, repetition, repetition...

[@smallpp688]

Is it curable

[@DrRamiNader]

Yes, there are things people can do to manage and recover from anhedonia. I'd encourage you to check out this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/roubiph9jdSHptE

[@nareshshanbhag]

i am having this from last 25 years... sir how can i come out of this

[@DrRamiNader]

I did a follow-up video on ways of managing anhedonia. You can find it here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/roubiph9jdSHptE Hope that helps.

[@shiarafigoni1464]

Pharmaceuticals cause this a lot of the time. Antibiotics, benzo's, ssri, antipsychotics, stimulant's.. street drug's, tbi:s, abi's, trauma, acne medication, unbalanced hormones, lyme disease, heavy metal toxicity, floride...I can go on for day's

[@montesa9136]

@Naresh S - I've had it all my life, & it just got worse with age. I'm now 65 looking forward to physician assisted suicide

[@roymaitland6345]

Up and down. Know there will be a up.

[@DrRamiNader]

Exactly. I actually have a video about this point coming up in the near future.

[@headofvengarl8893]

It's been years since there was anything like an up, it seems

[@roymaitland6345]

@@headofvengarl8893 Can you go on a trip? Sometimes a change of scenery jerks you out of a rut.

[@jennifera777]

Is anhedonia the same as apathy?

[@DrRamiNader]

Apathy is more like a sense of not caring. Anhedonia is more an inability to feel pleasure.

[@jennifera777]

@@DrRamiNader Thank you. Mine seems apathetic...I retreat more now at age 49 and I can entertain myself on KZbin and movies but doing day-to-day things seems meaningless... Do neurodivergent people, such with Asperger's experience apathy?

[@jaredcleevy6667]

At this point, i have my cat, drugs, and alcohol. Thats it.

[@ruthsmith1694]

Over thinking/too much dwelling on stuff, and very poor diet with no exercise plus hardly any fresh air is very bad for our minds and bodies. Also depending on chemicals that are in vaping, cigarettes and high energy drinks are really bad for our minds and bodies and are extremely addictive. Highly processed foods are addictive and very bad for our health too as they are high in bad fats, sugar and salt which can and does cause diseases. Living a simple modest whole foods plant based diet, exercise, fresh air and being with people we like and love so we can be healthy in mind and body allows us to enjoy life.

[@alexwintermeyer2265]

How about if i never really had any interest in anything, haven't been in a relationship or even hugged for 14 years ( I'm 43), i literally have zero friends, yet i'm not interested in acquiring any interest or partner or friends?

[@DrRamiNader]

Anhedonia is a loss of interest or pleasure in activities a person used to enjoy. If a person has never been interested in those activities, it is probably not Anhedonia.

[@shiarafigoni1464]

Hi Alex, most doctor's are liar's and clueless, just like the politician's. They all work for the same person.....SATAN

[@gloriakurkowski101]

You are not alone. I'm 67, had a horrible dysfunctional unloving and abusive family. Fought through a divorce, left with 3 children. Life is hell. Been depressed a l my life, now this. I take it one day at a time, some days a minute at a time. Now, as I get older, I thank God I'm getting closer to going home to be with my Lord. No more sorrow, no more pain. I'll pray for you.

[@danielson6024]

i'm suffering from anhedonia

[@DrRamiNader]

Sorry you are experiencing that.

[@michaelscott8220]

I think I’m going to fall asleep

[@katshades]

I stopped enjoying music.

[@callsignblaze4388]

I don’t enjoy anything anymore, I swam with sharks, jumped out of planes and I feel fucking nothing anymore.

[@bhaskardora8130]

Anhedonia is treatable or not ?

[@DrRamiNader]

For suggestions on how to manage anhedonia, check out this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/roubiph9jdSHptE

[@shiarafigoni1464]

It is a problem with dopamine

[@chandlerharding3859]

man said we all have things that we enjoy but I'm watching this video because I don't enjoy anything anymore edit: he goes on immediately after to describe my life lol guess I just had to wait a second longer

[@DrRamiNader]

Hope you found the video helpful!

[@armandoaguilera2969]

What part of your brain gets destroyed on a tbi to cause this?

[@DrRamiNader]

I don't know enough about TBI's to comment on this.

[@casandrazier2518]

My long term boyfriend of five years lost his father April of 2020, then his grandfather figure earlier this year. He hasn't been himself sense and has and had struggled with wanting to go get help with his depression. He broke up with me two weeks ago and says he isn't in love with me anymore. Says he cares and loves me as a friend and is convinced he has nothing to contribute to a relationship. He has become very withdrawn, and prior to the break up he would constantly pick fights over the smallest things. I truly do believe that it's his depression and grief talking. Then I stumbled upon the symptoms and feelings of anhedonia. I still live with him. Do you have any suggestions on how I can be supportive of him as his ex girlfriend? I still care deeply for this man, and hope to see him through this, but not entirely sure how to do so.

[@DrRamiNader]

Hi Casandra - thank you for your comments. I actually have a video about this exact topic coming up this Thursday, so please keep an eye out for it. Hope you find it helpful.

[@Itjustis123]

Wow! The algorithm really knows me! Better than i know myself it seems! This is 100% me to a T! Only ive never been good at explaining it!

[@DrRamiNader]

Hi Paul - welcome to the channel and I'm glad you found the video helpful.