Dysthymia - Dysthymic Disorder Cause, Symptoms and Treatment

Dysthymia is a mild or moderate and common form of depression generally involving fewer or less severe symptoms, but for a longer period of time - at least two years. This is a term used to describe a chronically depressed mood with the symptoms of major depressive disorder but less severe.

Dysthymia may or may not have a triggering life event, and as such it can be confusing and frustrating for both the depressed people and their loved ones. It can be punctuated by depressive episodes of more severity; so-called 'double depression'.

Some facts and statistics on Dysthymia?

Dysthymic Disorder is characterized by long-term, chronic symptoms (symptoms that recur again and again), which can stop the person enjoying or engaging fully with life or reaching their potential. Poor self-esteem and generally lowered mood is common, although in younger people it may be characterized by irritability and anger. If feeling of inappropriate guilt or suicidal thoughts are present, then a doctor is likely to diagnose depression, not Dysthymia.

About 40 percent of adults with dysthymic disorder also meet criteria for major depressive disorder or bipolar disorder in a given year. It often begins in childhood, adolescence, or early adulthood. It is very important that children with symptoms of dysthymia receive an evaluation from a mental health professional or physician.

Dysthymic Depression Symptoms

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