Dysthymia

Alternate Names: Chronic Depression, Depression, Chronic, Dysthymic Disorder, Neurotic Depression

Overview, Causes and Risk Factors

The precise cause of dysthymia is unknown. Although the symptoms are not as harsh as those of other forms of depression, affected individuals struggle nearly every day with low self-esteem, despair, and hopelessness.

Like all forms of depression, dysthymia occurs more often in women than in men and affects up to 5% of the general population. Dysthymia can occur alone or in combination with more severe depression or other mood or psychiatric disorders.

Dysthymia Symptoms and Signs

The main symptom of dysthymia is low, dark, or sad moods daily for at least two years. Other symptoms can include:

• Poor appetite or overeating
• Insomnia or hypersomnia
• Low energy or fatigue
• Low self-esteem
• Poor concentration
• Feelings of hopelessness

Dysthymia Diagnosis and Tests

Dysthymia is evaluated by taking a careful history of mood and other mental health symptoms over the past several months.

Dysthymia Treatment

As with other forms of depression, there are a number of treatment options for individuals with dysthymia. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors like Flouxetine (Prozac) are often used. Talk therapies, such as cognitive/behavioral therapy and interpersonal therapy, have also been shown to be effective.

There is some evidence to imply that the combination of both medication and psychotherapy treatments may yield the most improvement.

Dysthymia Prognosis (Expectations)

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 Complications

Antidepressant drugs have a number of side effects that can complicate treatment. For instance, 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.”

Dysthymia Treatment

If you or someone you know would like to talk with one of our trained staff to discuss treatment options for dysthymia treatment please contact us 24-hours a day, seven days a week at our toll free number: . You will receive a free consultation.