What Is Amotivational Syndrome?

Amotivational syndrome is a condition that causes apathy, memory loss, and lack of concentration. Learn more about what amotivational syndrome is and its types.

January 17, 2025 · 10 min · 2041 words · Carrie Hood

Table of Contents

Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsWhat Is Amotivational Syndrome?Amotivational Syndrome SymptomsIdentifying Amotivational SyndromeCausesExamplesAmotivational Syndrome Treatment

Table of ContentsView All

View All

Table of Contents

What Is Amotivational Syndrome?

Amotivational Syndrome Symptoms

Identifying Amotivational Syndrome

Causes

Examples

Amotivational Syndrome Treatment

A person with this condition will experience alack of concentrationand activeness, apathy, andpoor memory. The condition was first observed in the 1960s among people who hada long history of cannabis use.

It has since been linked to the use of otherpsychoactive drugssuch asmethamphetaminesand some over-the-counter cough syrups.

If you’ve been feeling unmotivated and uninterested in things that would usually bring you joy, you might be living with this condition.

Amotivational Syndrome Symptoms

The earliest signs of amotivational syndrome are signs ofapathy. Signs of apathy include:

Other symptoms that often occur with this condition include:

What Is Emotional Numbness?

The symptoms of amotivational syndrome are similar todepression, this is why the condition can sometimes be misdiagnosed. These symptoms can also be part of other brain conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s, schizophrenia, stroke, and brain injury.These other conditions would need to be ruled out.

Some research shows that the symptoms of amotivational syndrome reflect issues related to the frontal lobe of the brain, the limbic system, the serotonin pathways, and the dopaminergic reward system.

The Role of the Amygdala in Human Behavior and Emotion

There are certain chemical messengers in the brain that are linked with happiness, motivation, and goal-directed behavior. Dopamine is the “feel good” neurotransmitter and low levels are linked with feelings of apathy andanhedonia. Serotonin is another neurotransmitter linked with mood. An imbalance in the serotonergic system can wreak havoc on one’s sense of well-being.

Amotivational syndrome is one of the most common psychiatric conditions to occur in people who have a history of using psychoactive substances.This can be related to prescription medications or substance abuse, anything that alters the chemistry in the brain.

Psychoactive substances are considered to be any drugs or substances that alter the way your brain works.

However, over time, your brain becomes less responsive to dopamine and requires higher doses of the drug to achieve those good feelings. Eventually, your brain will have fewer dopamine receptors, and no longer respond to normal levels of dopamine, leaving you feeling unmotivated and uninterested in activities you once found interesting or rewarding.

8 Natural Ways to Increase Your Dopamine Levels

Marijuana- and SSRI-induced amotivational syndrome are the two most common types of the condition. Other substances such as stimulants and solvents are also suspects in this syndrome.

Marijuana

Amotivational syndrome was first observed among people who use marijuana frequently. However, the link between marijuana use and amotivational syndrome continues to be a source of controversy and debate.

Some studies report that amotivational syndrome is likely to occur between 16% and 21% of chronic marijuana users.

In a 2018 study, researchers tested the link between marijuana use and amotivational syndrome in 505 college students. They factored in age, gender, and race demographics. They also included evaluations of the participants' personalities. For example, researchers considered whether participants were using any other substances such astobacco and alcohol.

At the end of the study, researchers found that marijuana use alone was significantly associated with lower initiative and persistence which are signs of amotivational syndrome. They concluded that marijuana is a risk factor for developing the syndrome.

Research does show that cannabis is the most commonly attributed cause of amotivational syndrome.

While some studies show that frequent users of marijuana are most likely to experience amotivational syndrome, others believe that not only is marijuananotresponsible for the condition, the recreational drug actually leads to an increase in well-being for its users.

SSRI Anti-depressants

A paradoxical effect ofselective serotonin reuptake inhibitorsis the potential onset of amotivational syndrome.SSRIs are a common type of antidepressant typically used to treat clinical depression and include drugs like Zoloft and Prozac.

Amotivational syndrome is a potential side effect of using SSRIs that often goes unreported. A 2004 study showed that 20% of participants reported experiencing apathy after taking SSRIs and 16.1% reported experiencing a loss in their sense of ambition.

This appears to be dose-dependent, with higher doses producing more symptoms of apathy. Fortunately, according to the literature, the symptoms of apathy, indifference, and lack of motivation are reversed when the SSRI medication dosage is decreased or discontinued.

Stimulants, Cough Syrup, and Solvents

Prescription drugs are meant to decrease problematic symptoms and improve well-being. However, any substance that impacts the dopamine pathway can lead to abuse, addiction, and sometimes paradoxical effects. For example:

An Overview of Substance Use

The use ofantidepressants and psychotherapyis typically recommended for the treatment of the condition. However, if an SSRI is thought to be the cause of your amotivational syndrome, your doctor is most likely to recommend that your dosage be reduced or eventually stopped, and they may switch you to a non-SSRI instead.

A Word From Verywell

If you’re experiencing feelings of apathy, a loss of motivation, and decreased interest in the activities you once enjoyed, it can be quite frustrating. It might be helpful to consider reaching out to your family doctor or a trained mental health professional who can accurately evaluate and diagnose your condition.

If you suspect it may be the side effect of substance abuse, try cutting back or quitting. Are you taking SSRIs? Maybe you need to switch to a different anti-depressant. You can also do things to naturally activate your dopaminergic pathways, such as exercise, eating healthy, and getting enough sleep.

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14 SourcesVerywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Ozaki S, Wada K.Amotivational syndrome in organic solvent abusers.Nihon Yakurigaku Zasshi. 2001;117(1):42-48. doi:10.1254/fpj.117.42Husain M, Roiser JP.Neuroscience of apathy and anhedonia: A transdiagnostic approach.Nat Rev Neurosci.2018;19:470–484. doi:10.1038/s41583-018-0029-9Sansone RA, Sansone LA.SSRI-induced indifference.Psychiatry (Edgmont). 2010;7(10):14-18.Luca R, Angelo, GIM, Matteo P, et al.Negative dimension in psychiatry. Amotivational syndrome as a paradigm of negative symptoms in substance abuse.Rivista di Psichiatria. 2013;48(1):1-9. doi:10.1708/1228.13610Arı M, Şahpolat M, Kokaçya MH, Çöpoğlu ÜS.Amotivational syndrome: Less known and diagnosed as a clinical.Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. 2015;5(1):31-35. doi:10.5455/jmood.20140907115343Lac A, Luk JW.Testing the amotivational syndrome: Marijuana use longitudinally predicts lower self-efficacy even after controlling for demographics, personality, and alcohol and cigarette use.Prev Sci. 2018;19(2):117-126. doi:10.1007/s11121-017-0811-3Barnwell S, Earleywine M, Wilcox R.Cannabis, motivation, and life satisfaction in an internet sample.Subst Abuse Treat Prev Policy. 2006;1(1):2. doi:10.1186/1747-597X-1-2Kupfer DJ, Detre T, Koral J, Fajans P.A comment on the “amotivational syndrome” in marijuana smokers.AJP. 1973;130(12):1319-1322.Bolling MY, Kohlenberg RJ.Reasons for quitting serotonin reuptake inhibitor therapy: Paradoxical psychological side effects and patient satisfaction.Psychother Psychosom.2004;73:380–385. doi:10.1159/000080392Fahed M, Steffens DC.Apathy: Neurobiology, assessment and treatment.Clin Psychopharmacol Neurosci. 2021;19(2):181-189. doi:10.9758%2Fcpn.2021.19.2.181Ashizawa T, Saito T, Yamamoto M, et al.A case of amotivational syndrome as a residual symptom after methamphetamine abuse.Nihon Arukoru Yakubutsu Igakkai Zasshi. 1996;31(5):451-461.Leventhal AM, Brightman M, Ameringer KJ, et al.Anhedonia associated with stimulant use and dependence in a population-based sample of American adults.Experimental and Clinical Psychopharmacology. 2010;18(6):562-569. doi:10.1037/a0021964Johns Hopkins Medicine.Is cough syrup an antidepressant?Martinak B, Bolis RA, Black JR, Fargason RE, Birur B.Dextromethorphan in cough syrup: The poor man’s psychosis.Psychopharmacol Bull. 2017;47(4):59-63.

14 Sources

Verywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Ozaki S, Wada K.Amotivational syndrome in organic solvent abusers.Nihon Yakurigaku Zasshi. 2001;117(1):42-48. doi:10.1254/fpj.117.42Husain M, Roiser JP.Neuroscience of apathy and anhedonia: A transdiagnostic approach.Nat Rev Neurosci.2018;19:470–484. doi:10.1038/s41583-018-0029-9Sansone RA, Sansone LA.SSRI-induced indifference.Psychiatry (Edgmont). 2010;7(10):14-18.Luca R, Angelo, GIM, Matteo P, et al.Negative dimension in psychiatry. Amotivational syndrome as a paradigm of negative symptoms in substance abuse.Rivista di Psichiatria. 2013;48(1):1-9. doi:10.1708/1228.13610Arı M, Şahpolat M, Kokaçya MH, Çöpoğlu ÜS.Amotivational syndrome: Less known and diagnosed as a clinical.Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. 2015;5(1):31-35. doi:10.5455/jmood.20140907115343Lac A, Luk JW.Testing the amotivational syndrome: Marijuana use longitudinally predicts lower self-efficacy even after controlling for demographics, personality, and alcohol and cigarette use.Prev Sci. 2018;19(2):117-126. doi:10.1007/s11121-017-0811-3Barnwell S, Earleywine M, Wilcox R.Cannabis, motivation, and life satisfaction in an internet sample.Subst Abuse Treat Prev Policy. 2006;1(1):2. doi:10.1186/1747-597X-1-2Kupfer DJ, Detre T, Koral J, Fajans P.A comment on the “amotivational syndrome” in marijuana smokers.AJP. 1973;130(12):1319-1322.Bolling MY, Kohlenberg RJ.Reasons for quitting serotonin reuptake inhibitor therapy: Paradoxical psychological side effects and patient satisfaction.Psychother Psychosom.2004;73:380–385. doi:10.1159/000080392Fahed M, Steffens DC.Apathy: Neurobiology, assessment and treatment.Clin Psychopharmacol Neurosci. 2021;19(2):181-189. doi:10.9758%2Fcpn.2021.19.2.181Ashizawa T, Saito T, Yamamoto M, et al.A case of amotivational syndrome as a residual symptom after methamphetamine abuse.Nihon Arukoru Yakubutsu Igakkai Zasshi. 1996;31(5):451-461.Leventhal AM, Brightman M, Ameringer KJ, et al.Anhedonia associated with stimulant use and dependence in a population-based sample of American adults.Experimental and Clinical Psychopharmacology. 2010;18(6):562-569. doi:10.1037/a0021964Johns Hopkins Medicine.Is cough syrup an antidepressant?Martinak B, Bolis RA, Black JR, Fargason RE, Birur B.Dextromethorphan in cough syrup: The poor man’s psychosis.Psychopharmacol Bull. 2017;47(4):59-63.

Verywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

Ozaki S, Wada K.Amotivational syndrome in organic solvent abusers.Nihon Yakurigaku Zasshi. 2001;117(1):42-48. doi:10.1254/fpj.117.42Husain M, Roiser JP.Neuroscience of apathy and anhedonia: A transdiagnostic approach.Nat Rev Neurosci.2018;19:470–484. doi:10.1038/s41583-018-0029-9Sansone RA, Sansone LA.SSRI-induced indifference.Psychiatry (Edgmont). 2010;7(10):14-18.Luca R, Angelo, GIM, Matteo P, et al.Negative dimension in psychiatry. Amotivational syndrome as a paradigm of negative symptoms in substance abuse.Rivista di Psichiatria. 2013;48(1):1-9. doi:10.1708/1228.13610Arı M, Şahpolat M, Kokaçya MH, Çöpoğlu ÜS.Amotivational syndrome: Less known and diagnosed as a clinical.Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. 2015;5(1):31-35. doi:10.5455/jmood.20140907115343Lac A, Luk JW.Testing the amotivational syndrome: Marijuana use longitudinally predicts lower self-efficacy even after controlling for demographics, personality, and alcohol and cigarette use.Prev Sci. 2018;19(2):117-126. doi:10.1007/s11121-017-0811-3Barnwell S, Earleywine M, Wilcox R.Cannabis, motivation, and life satisfaction in an internet sample.Subst Abuse Treat Prev Policy. 2006;1(1):2. doi:10.1186/1747-597X-1-2Kupfer DJ, Detre T, Koral J, Fajans P.A comment on the “amotivational syndrome” in marijuana smokers.AJP. 1973;130(12):1319-1322.Bolling MY, Kohlenberg RJ.Reasons for quitting serotonin reuptake inhibitor therapy: Paradoxical psychological side effects and patient satisfaction.Psychother Psychosom.2004;73:380–385. doi:10.1159/000080392Fahed M, Steffens DC.Apathy: Neurobiology, assessment and treatment.Clin Psychopharmacol Neurosci. 2021;19(2):181-189. doi:10.9758%2Fcpn.2021.19.2.181Ashizawa T, Saito T, Yamamoto M, et al.A case of amotivational syndrome as a residual symptom after methamphetamine abuse.Nihon Arukoru Yakubutsu Igakkai Zasshi. 1996;31(5):451-461.Leventhal AM, Brightman M, Ameringer KJ, et al.Anhedonia associated with stimulant use and dependence in a population-based sample of American adults.Experimental and Clinical Psychopharmacology. 2010;18(6):562-569. doi:10.1037/a0021964Johns Hopkins Medicine.Is cough syrup an antidepressant?Martinak B, Bolis RA, Black JR, Fargason RE, Birur B.Dextromethorphan in cough syrup: The poor man’s psychosis.Psychopharmacol Bull. 2017;47(4):59-63.

Ozaki S, Wada K.Amotivational syndrome in organic solvent abusers.Nihon Yakurigaku Zasshi. 2001;117(1):42-48. doi:10.1254/fpj.117.42

Husain M, Roiser JP.Neuroscience of apathy and anhedonia: A transdiagnostic approach.Nat Rev Neurosci.2018;19:470–484. doi:10.1038/s41583-018-0029-9

Sansone RA, Sansone LA.SSRI-induced indifference.Psychiatry (Edgmont). 2010;7(10):14-18.

Luca R, Angelo, GIM, Matteo P, et al.Negative dimension in psychiatry. Amotivational syndrome as a paradigm of negative symptoms in substance abuse.Rivista di Psichiatria. 2013;48(1):1-9. doi:10.1708/1228.13610

Arı M, Şahpolat M, Kokaçya MH, Çöpoğlu ÜS.Amotivational syndrome: Less known and diagnosed as a clinical.Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. 2015;5(1):31-35. doi:10.5455/jmood.20140907115343

Lac A, Luk JW.Testing the amotivational syndrome: Marijuana use longitudinally predicts lower self-efficacy even after controlling for demographics, personality, and alcohol and cigarette use.Prev Sci. 2018;19(2):117-126. doi:10.1007/s11121-017-0811-3

Barnwell S, Earleywine M, Wilcox R.Cannabis, motivation, and life satisfaction in an internet sample.Subst Abuse Treat Prev Policy. 2006;1(1):2. doi:10.1186/1747-597X-1-2

Kupfer DJ, Detre T, Koral J, Fajans P.A comment on the “amotivational syndrome” in marijuana smokers.AJP. 1973;130(12):1319-1322.

Bolling MY, Kohlenberg RJ.Reasons for quitting serotonin reuptake inhibitor therapy: Paradoxical psychological side effects and patient satisfaction.Psychother Psychosom.2004;73:380–385. doi:10.1159/000080392

Fahed M, Steffens DC.Apathy: Neurobiology, assessment and treatment.Clin Psychopharmacol Neurosci. 2021;19(2):181-189. doi:10.9758%2Fcpn.2021.19.2.181

Ashizawa T, Saito T, Yamamoto M, et al.A case of amotivational syndrome as a residual symptom after methamphetamine abuse.Nihon Arukoru Yakubutsu Igakkai Zasshi. 1996;31(5):451-461.

Leventhal AM, Brightman M, Ameringer KJ, et al.Anhedonia associated with stimulant use and dependence in a population-based sample of American adults.Experimental and Clinical Psychopharmacology. 2010;18(6):562-569. doi:10.1037/a0021964

Johns Hopkins Medicine.Is cough syrup an antidepressant?

Martinak B, Bolis RA, Black JR, Fargason RE, Birur B.Dextromethorphan in cough syrup: The poor man’s psychosis.Psychopharmacol Bull. 2017;47(4):59-63.

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