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Alternate Names: Chronic Depression,
Depression - Chronic, Dysthymic Disorder, Neurotic
Depression (Dysthymia) Overview, Causes, & 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 & Signs
The main symptom of Dysthymia is low, dark, or sad mood
daily for at least 2 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 & 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, 7 days a week at
our t oll free number: 1-866-874-9774. You will receive a
free consultation. |
