Why do i feel so apathetic with my life and "fun" activity feels so empty and meaningless? Is there any way to "have fun" again?

The apathetic feeling can potentially stem from time demands and stresses as well as an absence of fulfilling work to name a few. Anhedonia is the name given to the loss of pleasure in normally pleasurable activities (the latter in this question). These feelings are quite common and can represent a need for change. You can "have fun" again through various lifestyle changes such as increased meditation and a different approach to time management and diet. Here are some examples of potential changes: - If you wake up in the morning and don't feel energised for the day then prepare a breakfast you enjoy that will encourage you to get out of bed. It may then be beneficial to do some degree of stretching or exercise that would otherwise be on your mind while completing other necessary tasks. - If you are studying or doing work then take breaks and choose a location where you do this work. A simple standardization of location can reduce the degree that these stresses leak into other more fun activities. Breaks are so important and should be paired with realistic goals: 'if I work solidly without distraction for x amount of time then I get y amount of time off'. This is very different to 'if I complete the massive task of x in y amount of time, then I get z amount of time off'. Should you find yourself stuck on a problem then it may be beneficial to take advantage of what is called the 'incubation period' where a troubling mental task is left for a while and is then come back to. During this time, the task is allowed to be more unconsciously processed, feeling less 'new' and easier to manage. Should you find that unwanted work is taking over then make sure that you have at least a day to yourself each week. Mental health is so important and that day will allow you to better tackle the others! - If you are constantly troubled by regrets that prevent you from feeling a sense of enjoyment then perhaps meditation would be beneficial. This is quite often dismissed but apps such as Headspace (which are free) aim to help you understand the pain and be present with it. Additionally, should these regrets and stresses prevent you from sleeping sufficiently then these apps will guide you through techniques which allow you to feel calmer as well as fall asleep more quickly. - In terms of diet, don't cut out the foods and drinks that you love. Instead, create healthier versions or cut down on the ones that aren't so healthy. Always finding yourself craving a lemonade? Make it yourself. It will most likely be healthier and you can customise it the way you like it. Want a packet of your favourite crisps? Have them every couple of days instead of every day. - Ironically, you may find that helping others is beneficial in these instances. It allows you to feel as though you have made a positive difference and allows you to be part of something larger. Activities may then hold meaning. Visit a community centre and ask how to help, mow the lawn for a neighbour or friend and help your kids with their homework. - Do not forget that your time is also your own, however. Try a new activity. Did you know that tag and dodgeball are actual sports? That Udemy offers courses for just about any skill (be it drawing, professional speaking or plate design) you could want to learn about? That you can design your own clothing online? Fun is all around us. The feeling of losing touch with it is harmful and stressful. You are not alone. Reach out to someone you know or a listener here on 7 Cups. Please do bear in mind that while you are in good hands, yours must also be put to work to make truly valuable changes.

Depression or anxiety can sometimes make you feel numb, and nothing seems to spark joy. But it's lying to you. They feeling of emptiness and meaninglessness is just a symptom and a feeling. And such as these things, they change. Generally there are times in our lives when we feel less and when we feel more joy, and fun. But both of these are okay. Nothing remains the same, and you can have fun, and enjoy life again. It helps to talk to people here, on 7 cups, attend therapy, talk to your friends about it, journal. Just don't give up because all of us has the ability to experience the beauty of life.

Sometimes people feel apathy as a trauma response because they feel like nothing is worth caring about anymore. A way to 'have fun' again might be to try simple things that brought you joy during your childhood. You could try things like riding your bike around town, playing on the swing set at your local park, or even going out and buying a cone of ice cream with a ton of sprinkles on top! The only way to make your life feel meaningful and whole again is to go out and try and do enjoyable activities! There is always a way to have fun!