Dysthymia

Dysthymia is a depressed mood that lasts for a long time. It is longer-lasting than major depression, but it is milder.

Causes

The cause of Dysthymia is unknown. A chemical called serotonin is thought to be involved in causing major depression. Serotonin may also be involved in causing Dysthymia. Life stresses, medical conditions, and personality disorders may also be involved in causing Dysthymia.

Risk Factors

 risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.
  • Sex: Female
  • Family history of major depression or Dysthymia
  • Living in poverty
  • Being unmarried

Symptoms

Symptoms include:
  • A depressed or sad mood daily:
    • In adults, this low mood lasts for at least two years.
    • In children and adolescents, the low mood lasts for at least one year.
  • Overeating or loss of appetite
  • Trouble sleeping or over-sleeping
  • Feeling tired
  • Low energy
  • Irritable mood
  • Anger
  • Loss of enjoyment in usual activities
  • Tearfulness
  • Trouble concentrating
  • Loss of hope
  • Low self-esteem

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history.Dysthymia is usually diagnosed based on the description of your symptoms. You may be given a complete physical and psychiatric exam. This will help determine if you have other medical or psychiatric conditions that could be affecting your mood.

Treatment

Treatment may include:
Antidepressant Medication
Drugs used include:
  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors
  • Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors
  • Tricyclic antidepressants
Psychotherapy
Talking through your life stresses and trying to learn ways to approach your life in a more positive way can be helpful.
Lifestyle Changes
It may be helpful to:
  • Try to involve yourself in enjoyable activities.
  • Eat a healthy diet.
  • Avoid caffeine, alcohol and other drugs.
  • Exercise regularly.

Prevention

There are no guidelines for preventing Dysthymia because the cause is unknown.