anhedonia vs depression

What's the difference? I do feel pleasure with or without meds, but I think I have some form of anhedonia. Somehow I have lower energy than normal. But it might be depression. I do feel sad often. Effexor makes me feel better, almost normal. So what's the difference. Sorry if you think my quiestion is stupid.

I don't think it is.

Anhedonia may be a symptom of depression. I had it. I spent months without as much as a smile, and I experienced colours draining away around me, taste -- disappearing (so I survived solely on fast food because what's the difference? at least it's fast), smells -- going... I remember walking past a billboard with some sort of funny slogan and saying -- not laughing, saying -- "ha, ha". I could see it's funny, I just couldn't experience it.

Big hugs.

I was just like you few months ago. Now from time to time... So I still have anhedonia. I think I understood the difference. Your post answered me a lot of questions and ordered my toughts. Thank you!

New word to me! Interesting. I have used the term "emotionally constipated or congested" to define that sense in me. I not only feel the inability to really laugh and feel good but feel the inability to cry or feel connected that way too - sadness. I answered to another post as to why I stop taking meds occasionally and this is the most common reason I have done this. I do not like to feel stopped up.

Did you feel an infinite emptiness?

Wow I didn't know there was a name for this 'feeling' or lack there of I suppose.

I have experienced things you are describing in the past and only during a major depressive cycle. It sucks I'll give you that.

I hope you find your way through this.

Had no idea the concept had an official title. I've definitely experienced it, in fact I'm in a mild depression now and can feel those effects starting. Like Oliveira said, I know what I'm supposed to feel, I just don't.

Thank you! Now I understood why my anhedonia has disappeared and has turned back in a slighter form.