[Clickster]

Hi all,
I'm a newbie here; Sorry for the long post! Just a few questions!

I have a history of OCD, anxiety, and some depression, but lately depression has been more of a concern for me.

Anxiety has always hindered my ability to feel happy because of constant worry. I have more or less recovered from OCD, and while I don’t think I often feel the level of sadness I would associate with depression, I often feel apathetic. I have moments of happiness, but they are rare. I have felt this way over a period of 2-3 years. I am able to lead a functional life, it feels as if I am simply ‘ticking boxes’. *During this time I was treated for a major depressive episode, and have had other periods (6 months+) where I am more sad than apathetic*

Q. 1) Does the apathy I’ve described sound like anhedonia? The research I’ve done suggests people experiencing anhedonia aren’t able to engage in activities or find motivation to do anything. It’s only when I’ve experienced intense sadness that I have not been able to do such things, even if I don’t ever enjoy doing them.

2) Since my depression has always revolved around my anxiety, I wondered if the possible anhedonia is actually linked to the anxiety. If not, is it possible that it is a mild form of chronic depression?

*I have seen, and continue to see, medical professionals, but would be glad of any ideas from others who have similar experiences*

[Rohag]

Hello & Welcome, Clickster.

Originally Posted by Clickster

Does the apathy I’ve described sound like anhedonia?

I'm not sure it's possible to tease everything apart into distinct categories. I'm inclined to say, based on your post, you are experiencing depressive apathy and a certain level of anhedonia characteristic of depression. Depression can manifest both as apathy and sadness (mine is more apathetic than sad). Depression frequently involves a loss of the ability to enjoy things (activities, sights, sounds, etc.).

Originally Posted by Clickster

Since my depression has always revolved around my anxiety, I wondered if the possible anhedonia is actually linked to the anxiety. If not, is it possible that it is a mild form of chronic depression?

My impression is the professionals most often associate anhedonia with depression diagnoses. Anxiety (e.g. Generalized Anxiety Disorder/GAD) is it's own diagnosis, but plenty of folks apparently suffer from both anxiety and depression.

It does sound as if there's a chronic component to your depression.

Please continue to post and make yourself at home.

[Fuzzybear]