Anhedonia: a unifying symptom and a transdiagnostic therapeutic target

Anhedonia indicates the reduced ability to gain pleasure from enjoyable activities. Its relevance stretches beyond the characterization of depression, and increasing importance is being given to its potential as a transdiagnostic symptom and therapeutic target. Anhedonia is observed in mood disorders, schizophrenia, substance use disorders as well as eating disorders, and involves multiple physiopathological mechanisms. Nevertheless, only a few pharmacological interventions have clearly proven efficacy in its treatment. The aim of this study was to provide a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge on anhedonia, focusing on its transnosografic role, its physiopathological underpinnings, and therapeutic implications.