Anhedonia as a Core Symptom of Depression and a Construct for Biological Research

What is it about?

A descriptive overview of the current evidence on anhedonia includes the evolving understanding of anhedonia, its significance as a symptom and diagnostic marker, its prevalence, and its pathophysiological underpinnings, as well as an overview of key assessment tools and treatment approaches.

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Why is it important?

Anhedonia is a critical psychiatric symptom that has seen significant advances in understanding over the past few decades. Initially linked primarily to depression, recent studies show it is also a core element of various other psychiatric disorders, contributing to morbidity, mortality, and suicidality. Emerging models emphasize its transdiagnostic relevance, while neuroimaging research has provided deeper insights into its pathophysiology. Several assessment scales with strong psychometric properties have been developed, and various treatment strategies, including psychopharmacology, neuromodulation, and psychotherapy, have shown varying degrees of effectiveness. This review discusses the evolving understanding of anhedonia, its significance, prevalence, pathophysiological underpinnings, key assessment tools, and treatment approaches.