Data supporting: 'Anhedonia and its sub-component processes predict clinically significant symptoms of major depressive disorder (MDD) and loneliness in young people'

Anhedonia, a core symptom of depression, refers to the reduced interest or pleasure in experiences that are typically rewarding. It is considered a significant risk factor for future depressive episodes and is associated with social withdrawal, which can lead to loneliness—another risk factor for depression. The aim of this study was to examine how anhedonia and its subcomponents relate to depression and loneliness symptoms in young people over time.

A total of 275 young people (ages 17–25, M = 20.50), with a range of depressive symptoms (assessed using the Mood and Feelings Questionnaire [MFQ]), were recruited from local schools and the student population through the School of Psychology research panel, online advertisements, and posters.

Participants completed assessments on depressive symptoms, anhedonia, and loneliness at baseline and at a four-month follow-up. A total of 173 participants provided follow-up data. Multiple regression analyses were conducted to examine the relationships between anhedonia and its subcomponents, and depressive symptoms and loneliness, both cross-sectionally and longitudinally.

Participants were reimbursed for their time and effort by being entered into a draw for a £50 Amazon voucher after completing the first survey. Participants who consented to participate in the follow-up phase were entered into a further draw for one of five £50 Amazon vouchers. A total of 103 participants could not be contacted for follow-up, had discontinued the study, or provided incomplete data.

Our findings confirm the association between anhedonia and both depression and loneliness. We highlight the important role of anhedonia and its subcomponents in predicting both clinical depression and loneliness, supporting theoretical models that emphasize the centrality of anhedonia in these mental health outcomes. By using both cross-sectional and longitudinal data, we demonstrate that anhedonia’s impact on clinical depression and loneliness persists over time. Future research should continue to explore the nuanced role of anhedonia in youth mental health, particularly its differential impact across various subcomponent processes.