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Depression with a longer duration and milder symptoms is called dysthymic disorder. Another name for it is persistent depressive disorder. Major depressive episodes are occasionally experienced by those who have this illness.
Dysthymia sufferers, like those with other forms of depression, may feel extremely depressed and hopeless. While these symptoms are present in all types of depression, they can linger for a long time in dysthymia and hamper an individual's day-to-day functioning.
What is Dysthymic Disorder?
The Greek word 'dys', which means ill or bad, and 'thymia', which means 'mind' or 'emotions' are the basis of the phrase dysthymia. A mild, persistent form of depression was referred to as dysthymia and dysthymic disorder.
A persistent, prolonged form of depression is called dysthymic disorder. You can experience depressive and empty feelings, lose interest in routine activities, and struggle to complete tasks. You might also feel despondent, low on yourself, and like a failure. Your relationships, studies, employment, and daily activities may be hampered by these feelings, which can persist for years.
In the United States, one of the most prevalent mental health conditions is depression. Major depressive illness or dysthymic disorder affects about 11% of children and adolescents aged 13 to 18.
Symptoms & Causes of Dysthymic Disorder
Dysthymia has symptoms that are comparable to those of depression. The primary distinction is that dysthymia is a chronic condition, with symptoms present almost every day for at least two years.
Having a persistent depressive disorder can result in serious problems in life like:
- Sorrow, emptiness, or a negative attitude
- Decline in interest in routine activity
- Fatigue and insufficient energy
- Low self-esteem, self-criticism, or sense of inadequacy
- Having problems concentrating and making decisions
- Difficulties doing tasks effectively and on schedule
- Being quickly irritated, irritable, or angry
- Avoiding social interactions
- Guilt-ridden thoughts and concerns about the past
- Overeating or a poor appetite
- Issues with sleep
- Hopelessness
Depending on the person, these symptoms can range in intensity. While some people experience substantial anguish, making it difficult to manage jobs, school, or social circumstances, others are nevertheless able to manage the essential demands of life.
Although the precise origin of dysthymia is unknown, many factors are likely to contribute to its onset. Those with close relatives who suffer from depression are more prone to acquire chronic depressive illness, especially if it begins early in life. Heredity (genetics) can also be a factor (teens to early 20s).
Persistent depressive illness may also be triggered by changes in the brain's neurotransmitters (chemical messengers). The onset of persistent depressive disorder can be influenced by many factors, including long-term stress or sickness, isolation, and perceptions and ideas about the outside world.
The likelihood of it developing can also be increased by other mental health issues, like borderline personality disorder.
Treatment of Dysthymic Disorder
Medication and psychotherapeutic interventions are used to treat dysthymic disorders.
Cognitive behavioral therapy and interpersonal therapy are two examples of evidence-based psychotherapy therapies for depression. The most effective solution has been shown to be a combination of psychotherapy and antidepressant medication.
The most often prescribed antidepressants are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). When antidepressant drugs are started or doses are increased, children and adolescents must be regularly watched by their healthcare team.
As dysthymia is a chronic condition, it's critical to actively engage in your therapy. Some lifestyle changes can support medical therapies and aid in symptom relief. Together with your prescription medication, making lifestyle changes, like working out at least three times per week, eating a diet high in natural foods, practicing yoga, tai chi, or meditation, and keeping a journal, may be helpful.
There are things you may do to help yourself if you suffer from dysthymic disorder. You may feel worn out, unworthy, powerless, and hopeless when you're depressed. It can feel like quitting when you have such unfavorable ideas and sensations.
However, it's critical to understand that these pessimistic perceptions may not accurately represent reality and are a symptom of depression. Once the effects of the treatment start to kick in, negative thinking diminishes. Even the persistent effects of dysthymic disorder can be dealt with if you reach out for help.
Janvi Kapur is a counselor with a Master's degree in applied psychology with a specialization in clinical psychology.
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