A commonly seen game mechanic in Darkest Dungeon 1 and 2, it appears over the heads of affected individuals who have succumbed to a severe negative emotion or madness. The affliction can be obtained from many of the game's stress-related mechanics and inflicts a negative effect on the afflicted individual.

It is often seen with its iconic black circular arc and five spike like protrusions, heading inwards, surrounded by a red hue floating above characters' heads to indicate they are currently plagued by said affliction. 

[spoilers]Through the many challenges that the heroes of Darkest Dungeon 2 go through, it is eventually revealed that its true name is: 'The Iron Crown', and is actually the entity responsible for causing many of Darkest Dungeon's abomination related disasters and spreading the corruption in the land.[/spoilers]
affliction (darkest dungeon)