Understanding Dysthymia
Symptoms, Prevalance and Treatment of Chronic Depressive Illness
This piece offers an introduction to dysthymic disorder, including how to manage this persistent type of mild depression.
Dysthymia (dysthymic disorder) is a persistent depressive illness affecting both adults and children. Dysthymia is not as severe as a major depressive episode, but its symptoms can still infringe upon the daily living of sufferers. Like many other types of depression, dysthymia is treatable.
Symptoms of Dysthymia
Given its chronic nature, the symptoms of dysthymia must be present for two years (one year in children and adolescents) before a diagnosis can be made. Sufferers will experience low mood on almost a daily basis and at least two of the following symptoms:
- Loss of appetite or overeating
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Fatigue or low energy
- Poor self-image
- Difficulty concentrating
- Difficulty in decision-making
- Feelings of hopelessness
Due to its mildness, dysthymia may go unnoticed by the loved ones of sufferers, and sometimes symptoms can vanish for up to a couple of months. However, mild depression will still impair the sufferer’s functioning. Although a sufferer may continue to go to work, for example, their working life may be quite difficult.
Dysthymia can present with similar symptoms to medical conditions such as hyperthyroidism, so it is important to visit a doctor. Other mental health problems may also need to be ruled out in order to make the diagnosis. However, a major depressive episode can occur alongside dysthymia. This is referred to as Double Depression.
Prevalence and Causes of Dysthymia
It is estimated that about 3% of people worldwide are suffering with dysthymia. As with other depressive disorders, most of those affected are female. The causes of this disorder are unclear but there are a few factors that may increase the likelihood of it developing. Biological factors, genetics, psychosocial issues and chronic stress may be relevant. People diagnosed with personality disorders may be more likely to develop dysthymia.
Treating Dysthymia
Dysthymia can be treated similarly to other depressive disorders. Since it is a chronic issue, treatments may be long term. The following interventions may be helpful:
- Antidepressants: these prescribed medications alter the levels of certain neurotransmitters, chemicals in the brain that are strongly linked to mood.
- Talking treatments: psychotherapy may be helpful, particularly when used in combination with antidepressants. Psychotherapy generally explores how the past can lead to issues in the present, though there are many different models. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a type of psychotherapy that works on modifying cognitions, beliefs and behaviors.
- Self-help: taking up exercise, ensuring a healthy balanced diet and seeking enjoyable activities (e.g. going to a movie) may also be useful.
Dysthymia is not a normal part of life and someone suffering with symptoms should not feel they have to tolerate them. Read Treatment for Major Depressive Disorder for more information on interventions such as antidepressants. It is prudent to seek medical advice in order to rule out other conditions, and to develop a suitable plan of treatment and management.
Sources
Dysthymic Disorder: EMedicine, accessed 10th March 2008, author - Guzofski, S
Dysthymic Disorder: When Depression Lingers: Familydoctor.org, accessed10th March 2008, no author specified
