Dysthymia

Definition:

A disorder with a chronic depressed mood; it is a mild form of depression.

Alternative Names:

Neurotic depression (dysthymia); Dysthymic disorder; Chronic depression

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

The cause is unknown. The symptoms are not as severe as depression. However, affected people struggle most days with symptoms of depressed mood. It occurs more frequently in women than men and generally persists over a period of years. It can occur in children.

Symptoms:

Depressed mood for most of the day
- Depressed more days than not
- Continues for 2 years or longer
Poor appetite or overeating
Insomnia or hypersomnia
Low energy or fatigue
Low self-esteem
Poor concentration
Feelings of hopelessness

Signs and tests:

The person's own description of the behavior usually leads to diagnosis of the disorder. A physical examination is given to rule out physical cause, and a psychological evaluation is given to rule out other psychiatric disorders.

Treatment:

Treatment consists of a combination of medication and therapy. The most common therapies are cognitive therapy and behavioral therapy. Often, higher doses of medications are necessary than for severe depression.

Expectations (prognosis):

The overall outlook is good with treatment but the disorder may persist for several years.

Complications:

Dysthymia can progress into a major depression, and itself carries a risk of suicide.

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you suffer from a persistent depressed mood.

Review Date: 5/18/2001
Reviewed By: Christos Ballas, M.D., Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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