DYSTHYMIC DISORDER

PERSISTENT DEPRESSIVE DISORDER (DYSTHYMIA)

Overview

Persistent depressive disorder is a constant long-term (chronic) type of depression, also called dysthymia (dis-THIE-me-uh). You may lose interest in ordinary day-to-day operations, feel desperate, absence productivity, low self-esteem and a sense of inadequacy overall.

If you have a persistent depressive disorder, even on happy occasions you may find it difficult to be upbeat— you may be described as having a dull personality, constantly complaining or unable to have fun. Although the persistent depressive disorder isn’t as serious as the major depression, your present depressed mood may be mild, moderate, or serious.

Coping with symptoms of depression may be challenging due to the chronic nature of the constant depressive disorder, but a mixture of talk treatment (psychotherapy) and medicine may be efficient in treating this condition.

Symptoms

Over a period of years, persistent symptoms of depressive disorder generally occur and their intensity may alter over time. But symptoms do not usually vanish at a moment for more than two months. Moreover, episodes of significant depression may happen before or during permanent depressive disorder— this is sometimes referred to as a double depression.

Symptoms of persistent depressive disorder may trigger important impairment and may include:

  • Loss of interest in day-to-day activity

  • Sadness, emptiness or feeling down

  • Hopelessness

  • Fatigue and absence of energy

  • Low self-esteem, self-criticism or incapacity

  • Concentration disorder and decision-making disorder

  • Irritability or excessive frustration

  • Reduced activity, efficiency and productivity

  • Avoidance of social operations

  • Feelings of guilt and previous concerns

  • Poor appetite or over-consumption

  • Sleep issues

In kids, depressed mood and irritability may include symptoms of permanent depressive disorder.

When seeing a doctor

Because these emotions have been going on for so long, you might believe they will always be component of your life. But seek medical assistance if you have any symptoms of persistent depressive disorder.

Talk about your symptoms to your primary care physician. Or seek assistance straight from a specialist in mental health. If you’re reluctant to see a mental health professional, reach out to someone else who may be able to help guide you to treatment, whether it’s a friend or loved one, a teacher, a faith leader, or someone else you trust.

Call 911 or your local emergency number instantly if you believe you can harm yourself or try suicide.

Causes:

It is not known the precise cause of the constant depressive disorder. It may require more than one cause, as with major depression, such as:

  • Differences in biology. Individuals with persistent depressive disorder may experience physical brain modifications. The meaning of these modifications is still unsure, but they may ultimately assist to identify causes.

  • Chemistry of the brain. Neurotransmitters are brain chemicals that occur naturally and are probable to play a part in depression. Recent research indicates that changes in the function and effect of these neurotransmitters and how they interact with neurocircuits involved in maintaining mood stability may play a significant role in depression and its treatment.

  • Characteristics inherited. The persistent depressive disorder appears to be more prevalent in individuals who also have the condition in their blood relatives. Researchers are trying to find genes that can cause depression.

  • Events of life. Like with major depression, traumatic events such as a loved one’s loss, economic issues or elevated stress can cause constant depressive disorder in some individuals.

Risk factors

The persistent depressive disorder often starts early — and is chronic — in adolescence, teen years, or young adult life. Some variables appear to improve the risk of persistent depressive disorder developing or triggering, including:

  • Having a first degree relative with significant depressive disorder or other depressive disorders

  • Traumatic or stressful life events, such as the loss of a loved one or economic issues

  • Personality characteristics that include negativity, such as low self-esteem and being too dependent, self-critical or pessimistic

  • History of other mental health illnesses, such as personality disorder.

Complications Conditions that may be associated with persistent depressive disorder include:

  • Lifestyle reduction

  • Major depression, anxiety disorders and other mood disorders

  • Substance abuse

  • Difficulties in relationships and family disputes

  • School and work issues and reduced productivity

  • Chronic pain and overall medical conditions

  • Suicidal thoughts or behaviors

  • Personality or other mental health disorders.

Prevention

There is no certain way to avoid constant depressive disorder. Because it often begins in adolescence or during adolescence, early therapy can be helpful in identifying kids at danger of the disorder. Strategies that can assist prevent symptoms include:

Take steps to manage stress, increase resilience and increase self-esteem.

Involve family and friends, particularly in moments of crisis, in order to help you weather raw spells.

  • Get therapy as soon as possible to assist avoid worsening of symptoms.

Consider treatment with long-term maintenance to help prevent symptoms from recurring.