What emotional state is defined by extreme detachment and sadness?

The emotional state defined by extreme detachment and sadness is melancholia. This term specifically describes a profound sense of sorrow and despondency, often accompanied by a withdrawal from reality and interpersonal connections. Individuals experiencing melancholia may find it difficult to engage with their surroundings, feeling disconnected from both their emotions and the people around them.

While excitement and joy represent positive emotional states characterized by feelings of pleasure and engagement, they are the opposite of what is described by melancholia. Similarly, anxiety, although it can involve feelings of distress and unease, is rooted more in fear or apprehension about future events rather than the deep-seated sadness and detachment that characterize melancholia. Therefore, the descriptor of extreme detachment and sadness aligns specifically with the definition of melancholia.