Information From Your Health Care Provider

DYSTHYMIA

(Depression, Low-Grade)

Basic information

description

Dysthymia is a chronic, mild form of depression. The start of dysthymia often goes unnoticed. Many people are not aware of the change in their lives. Symptoms may begin in childhood or in adolescence and go on for years. It affects females more than males.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

The depressed mood has occurred for most of each day, for most days, for two years or more (one year for children/teens). There has been no more than two months without some of the symptoms listed and at least two of the symptoms should be present.
Poor appetite or overeating.
Sleeping too much or too little.
Lack of energy; feeling tired all the time.
Feelings of hopelessness.
Low self-esteem.
Trouble with concentration and making decisions.

causes

It appears to be due to an imbalance of certain brain chemicals along with other factors. These can include genetic, developmental, medical problems, coping strategies, and social factors (such as job loss or divorce).

risk increases with

Family history of depressive illnesses.
Chronic stress or chronic illness.
Stressful life events.
Persons who have other psychiatric disorders.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

No specific preventive measures. A healthy lifestyle with good nutrition and exercise and having close friends and family and a job you enjoy may help reduce risk.

expected outcomes

Most people are helped by treatment. It may take several months before symptoms improve. Sometimes it isn't until a patient has been treated and is feeling better that they realize how depressed they have been.

possible complications

Dysthymia recurs after treatment.
Major depression develops.
Alcohol or substance abuse.
Problems with school or work (e.g., decreased productivity or job loss ).
Problems and conflicts with personal relationships.
Risk of suicidal behavior.

diagnosis & treatment

general measures

Your health care provider may do a physical exam, and will ask questions about your symptoms and activities. There is no medical test to diagnose dysthymia. Medical tests may be done to rule out other disorders.
Treatment usually includes some form of psychotherapy (counseling) and/or drug therapy.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy is often recommended. The cognitive part teaches people how to change thoughts, behaviors, or attitudes. The behavior part teaches people ways to reduce anxiety, such as with deep breathing and muscle relaxation.
Interpersonal therapy can help a patient identify personal relationship problems and how to correct them.
Psychodynamic therapy resolves emotional conflicts.
Job counseling may be recommended for some patients to be sure their work suits their temperament.
Join a support group. They help many people.
Try to reduce emotional stress in your life. Learn techniques to cope with stress.
Avoid alcohol abuse or drug abuse. If you need help stopping, ask your health care provider, or contact an Alcoholics Anonymous group in your area.

medications

An antidepressant may be prescribed for some patients. The drug will usually be needed for several months or several years. If one antidepressant doesn't work, another type can often help.

activity

No limits. A daily exercise program is recommended. It can help improve well-being.