Depression and Apathy: Origin, Signs, and Additional Information
Apathy: A Common Symptom of Depression
Apathy, a condition characterized by a lack of interest or motivation in activities that were once enjoyed, is a symptom that is often associated with depression. This condition can manifest in various ways, such as difficulty making decisions, feeling indifferent, lack of emotion, poor concentration, and slowed thinking.
While apathy is not the same as depression, many people living with depression also experience apathy. Depression is a mood disorder that results in persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness.
If apathy is a symptom of an underlying health condition, such as depression, addressing the root cause can help. A doctor may order tests such as a complete blood count, blood and urine toxicology screen, thyroid stimulating hormone levels, vitamin B12 levels, an HIV test, levels of electrolytes including calcium, phosphate, and magnesium, blood urea nitrogen and creatinine levels, liver function tests, and an arterial blood gas test to determine the cause of apathy. In some cases, a doctor may also order CT scans or MRI scans of the brain.
If a doctor concludes that apathy is a symptom of depression, they may recommend lifestyle changes such as increasing physical activity, eating a balanced diet, practicing mindfulness, avoiding substance use, quitting smoking, thinking positively, getting enough sleep, having a support system, identifying new sources of interest and joy, visiting new places, spending time in nature, trying new things, talking with loved ones, and getting outside more often.
Although feeling apathetic at some point is a normal part of life, a person should speak with a doctor if it is ongoing. If feelings of apathy worsen and an individual is in crisis, they can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255 or 988 for free, confidential help around the clock.
Treatments for apathy in depression typically focus on addressing the underlying depressive disorder but may specifically target motivational symptoms. Antidepressant medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) can improve mood and motivation by correcting neurochemical imbalances. Psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), can help modify negative thoughts, improve interpersonal functioning, and address past trauma, thereby potentially enhancing motivation and reducing apathy.
In sum, apathy in depression is primarily driven by neurochemical and psychological factors reducing motivation and interest, often accompanied by anhedonia. Treatments combine pharmacological and psychotherapeutic approaches targeted at restoring mood and motivational drive, especially critical in neurodegenerative contexts like Alzheimer's where apathy predicts faster decline. If you or someone you know is experiencing persistent or severe feelings of apathy, it is important to seek help from a doctor or mental health professional.
Self-care practices such as eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and practicing mindfulness can help manage apathy in individuals dealing with depression. In the realm of mental health, recognizing new sources of interest and joy, visiting new places, and spending time in nature can stimulate motivation and combat apathy. The science of health-and-wellness emphasizes the importance of regular physical exercise in boosting mood and reducing symptoms of apathy.
