Affect is an external expression, and one that can change rapidly. Vocal expressions including rate, force, and tone of speechĪs a mental health symptom, affect stands in contrast to mood, because mood is the subjective, internal experience of the individual.
Affect is a perceivable and noticeable reflection of one’s emotional state.Ī mental health expert, medical professional, or loved one can evaluate and categorize a person’s affect by observing their: 2 To readily grasp what blunted affect means, it is essential to understand what affect is and how mental health professionals use this information to make a more accurate assessment, diagnosis, and impactful treatment plan.
Blunted affect is usually linked to a mental or physical health condition, but the use of alcohol and other drugs, as well as prescription medications, can also influence a person’s affect. They could hear wonderful news and barely crack a smile, or they experience tragedy without shedding a tear.