Dysthymia - Chronic depression — Against Depression

Dysthymia - Chronic depression

Dysthymia, sometimes referred to as chronic depression, is a less severe form of depression. Depression is categorized as chronic when symptoms last at least two years. Those who suffer from dysthymia are usually able to function adequately but might seem consistently unhappy. However, symptoms are not as severe as with major depression.

Symptoms

There are physical and mental symptoms of chronic depression. This disorder features short periods of normal life that are changed with long-lasting episodes of depression.

The symptoms of dysthymia are the same as those of major depression but not as intense and include the following:

Feelings of hopelessness
Too little or too much sleep
Low energy or fatigue
Low self-esteem
Poor appetite or overeating
Poor concentration

How Is Dysthymia Diagnosed?

Your health care provider will take a history of your mood and other mental health symptoms. The health care provider may also check your blood and urine to rule out medical causes of depression.

Call for help immediately if you or someone you know develops these symptoms, which are signs of a suicide risk:

Giving away belongings, or talking about going away and the need to get "affairs in order"
Performing self-destructive behaviors, such as injuring themselves
Suddenly changing behaviors, especially being calm after a period of anxiety
Talking about death or suicide, or even stating the desire to harm themselves
Withdrawing from friends or being unwilling to go out anywhere

Your doctor can explain other treatments for dysthymia and major depression. Some people with seasonal depression find good relief with light therapy.

Sources and Additional Information:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001916/