The Anhedonia Project: Finding Joy is a 5-year research initiative funded by a Wellcome Early Career Award held by Dr Clem Edwards. It began in November 2023 and explores anhedonia—the loss of pleasure or joy in activities you once enjoyed.
Why it matters
Anhedonia is a common experience across many mental health conditions, yet it is often misunderstood or overlooked. Please click here to find out more about it.
What we’re doing
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Listening to people with lived experience of anhedonia, and those who care for them
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Using digital tools (smartphones, virtual reality) to explore what’s happening during everyday activities
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Investigating what contributes to or maintains anhedonia
Why we’re sharing
Over the first year, we’ve heard from many people who’ve experienced anhedonia for years without support. This project is about breaking that silence—sharing what we learn, openly and creatively.
"Being apart of the anhedonia project has had a huge impact on me. It’s certainly helped me grow in confidence, believe in myself, and feel like I can achieve something while helping others." – Nicola (Lived Experience Advisory Panel (LEAP) member)
"Before this project, I'd never heard of Anhedonia. I now realise how fundamental the condition has been to my mental health history and current state. Recognising this is important if you're going to do something about it." – Julian (LEAP member)
About Us
Meet The Team
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Acknowledgement to other team members:
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Luisa Lynen (Student)