Apathy in adults

Apathy, literally translated, is the absence of feelings, interest, or any reaction to specific situations or life in general. Many people may have short periods of apathy at some point in their lives, a state that is described as indifference to current events or unwillingness to do anything. But in the medical sense, this problem is considered a long-term syndrome.

Apathy is usually associated with certain mental conditions or disorders. Specific symptoms of apathy include:

• absence or severe suppression of emotions, feelings, anxiety or passion;
• lack of motivation (no desire to do anything or complete what has been started), weakening of willpower;
• lack of meaning or purpose in one’s actions, but unlike depression, there is no feeling of uselessness and hopelessness, there is simply no desire, intention to say, do something and somehow react;
• slowness, very low energy levels and passivity;
• detachment from life and personal events – this is especially common in people with dementia.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), optimal health is the state in which the potential for physical, mental, and emotional growth is maximized. Thus, apathy does not meet the WHO definition of optimal health.

Causes of apathy in adults

Most people experience a feeling of apathy from time to time – this is not a pathology. It is worth worrying when apathy is persistent and affects a variety of areas of life.

Apathy can be caused by a problem with the areas of the brain that control emotions, goals, and behavior. It is often one of the first symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Up to 70% of people with dementia lose interest in life, they are lethargic.

Apathy can also be a symptom of other brain disorders, such as:

• brain injury from a strong blow to the head;
• stroke;
• depression;
• Parkinson’s disease;
• Huntington’s disease;
• schizophrenia.

When apathy is chronic and severe, it can interfere with work in many areas of life—making work difficult, disrupting social relationships, and even performing basic daily self-care tasks. Studies show that apathy is a very common phenomenon, according to some estimates, apathy in Russia affects 5 million adults.

Our motivation originates in certain areas of the brain and is regulated by them. Disruption of these areas (especially the frontal lobes) may be associated with the development of apathy. A decrease in the release of certain substances in the striatum, especially dopamine, can lead to apathy. Dopamine is the main carrier of information between brain regions and is actively involved in the regulation of motivation.

The basal ganglia is the part of the brain that regulates the reward system and attraction. This zone gives us an idea of ​​the value of behavior or reward for work. Disruption of these networks can also lead to apathy, since there is a mismatch between motivation and reward or inducement, which leads to unwillingness to work, suppression of purpose.

Therefore, apathy is not “normal” and prolonged apathy should be considered a neurological or psychiatric symptom, most likely associated with a brain disease.

Symptoms of apathy in adults

Typical signs of apathy include:

• the difficulty of performing everyday tasks;
• a feeling of indifference to everything that happens;
• lack of emotions and interest in activities;
• lack of motivation to achieve goals;
• low energy level;
• decreased desire to participate in various activities;
• unemotional reaction to both positive and negative events.

Apathy can often be a symptom of depression, but it’s important to emphasize that they’re not the same thing.

What to do with apathy in adults at home

Treatment for apathy depends on the underlying causes that caused it. We can deal with common apathy by changing lifestyle and grooming habits. But if symptoms occur due to underlying medical or psychiatric illnesses, a doctor should be consulted. For most illnesses, treatment may include medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of both.

For lethargy caused by progressive neurodegenerative disorders, a doctor may prescribe medications to try to address these symptoms.

Examples of medications that can be used to treat conditions with apathy as a symptom include:

• antidepressants;
• neuroleptics;
• stimulants.

A doctor may also recommend psychotherapy when apathy is associated with a condition such as depression or anxiety. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one approach that aims to address core thoughts and behaviors that can contribute to feelings of indifference and poor motivation.

You can also take a few steps yourself to help overcome feelings of apathy.

• Set small goals for yourself. If you aim for a lot and then fail to complete the tasks, you can feel defeated and unmotivated. Instead, focus on small tasks that are easier to complete.
• Break big projects into parts. When you’re faced with a big project, it’s easy to feel lethargic and reluctant to start. By doing only a small part of it every day, you can make progress towards your goal, even if you suffer from lethargy.
• Watch out for triggers. Notice if there are certain situations or stressors that make you feel lethargic. Eliminating obstacles that make you feel unmotivated can help you find inspiration.
• Change your routine. Sometimes the daily routine can stifle motivation. Look for ways to break out of your daily routine, even if the changes are relatively small.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Friends and family can help you when you’re feeling unmotivated, and their support can help pique your interest.

Popular questions and answers

Answered questions about apathy Cardiologist, therapist Natalya Gavrilyuk.