Definition
Dysthymia is a chronic form of depression characterized by moods that are consistently low, but not as extreme as in other types of depression.
Symptoms
The main symptom of dysthymia is low, dark, or sad mood nearly every day for at least 2 years. Other symptoms can include:
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Dysthymia is a chronic form of depression characterized by moods that are consistently low, but not as extreme as in other types of depression.
The main symptom of dysthymia is low, dark, or sad mood nearly every day for at least 2 years. Other symptoms can include:
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The exact cause of dysthymia is unknown. Although the symptoms are not as severe as those of other forms of depression , affected people struggle nearly every day with low self-esteem, despair, and hopelessness.
As with major depressive disorder, dysthymia occurs more frequently in women than in men and affects up to 5% of the general population. Dysthymia can occur alone or in conjunction with more severe depression or other mood or psychiatric disorder.
As with other forms of depression, there are a number of treatment options for people with dysthymia. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors such as fluoxetine (Prozac) are often used. Talk therapies, such as cognitive/behavioral therapy and interpersonal therapy, have also been shown to be effective.
Some evidence suggests the combination of medication and psychotherapy may result in the most improvement.
Neurotic depression (dysthymia); Dysthymic disorder; Chronic depression; Depression - chronic
Antidepressant drugs have a number of side effects that can complicate treatment. For example, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors may cause stomach upset, mild insomnia, and reduced sex drive. However, untreated dysthymia can progress into a major depressive episode, a phenomenon known as "double depression."
By definition, dysthymia is a chronic condition lasting many years. Though some people completely recover, others continue to have some symptoms despite treatment. Maintenance medication and therapy may be required.
Dysthymia is evaluated by taking a careful history of mood and other mental health symptoms over the past several months.
