Understanding Dysthymia (Persistent Depressive Disorder)

People have a tendency to make use of the term “depression” being an all-encompassing descriptor of those who experience perpetual sadness. As a result, major despression symptoms (MDD) and dysthymia are often lumped together in discussions about mental health. However, dysthymia is actually a milder, unique form of depression that impacts roughly 1.5% of adults in the United States over any particular 12-month timeframe. Despite presenting as less intense symptomatology than MDD, dysthymia should still be taken seriously-it frequently involves extensive periods of feeling desolate and fatigued, which can impair daily functioning. Below is more information to be able to begin understanding dysthymia and how it is different from other kinds of depression.

Signs and the signs of dysthymia in adults

Dysthymia, also known as persistent despression symptoms, exists when someone continues to be feeling depressed not less than 2 yrs. In clinical terms, one must have a depressed mood for almost the entirety of each and every day. Some other common signs and symptoms of dysthymia include undereating or overeating, not being able to sleep or sleeping too much, experiencing fatigue, having low self-esteem, experiencing concentration or decision-making, and feeling hopeless. 

Are dysthymia and major depressive disorder (MDD) similar?

Since dysthymia is yet another type of depression, it is no wonder there are similarities between this diagnosis which of major despression symptoms. The most easily recognizable symptom shared by these diagnoses is really a low or depressed mood. Actually, according to the current Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V), a depressed mood is among the hallmark ways in which depressive disorders manifest. As well as having an indicator common among this categorization of mental illnesses, dysthymia and MDD share additional symptoms. For instance, both may present as disruptions in sleep patterns (e.g., insomnia or hypersomnia), feeling fatigued, and achieving difficulty focusing on tasks.

Finally, dysthymia and MDD each affect individuals with techniques which are similar, but not quite the same. Signs that are similar to one another yet vary slightly are known as parallel symptoms. For example, however who have dysthymia might overeat or undereat, a diagnosis of MDD necessitates actual putting on weight or loss. Along with changes in one's eating patterns, there are two other parallel symptoms. While those who have dysthymia may go through low self-esteem and hopelessness, those with MDD may go through disproportionate amounts of guilt and contemplate suicide.

How are dysthymia and MDD different then? 

Even though dysthymia and MDD are similar in certain domains, several key differences between the diagnoses do exist. Understanding these differences is essential to finding the right treatment. First, dysthymia presents longer than MDD. Folks who suffer from dysthymia experience symptoms for at least 2 yrs, a period of time in which symptoms might not be absent for greater than two months consecutively.

Conversely, to satisfy the diagnostic criteria for MDD, people only have to exhibit alterations in their mood and behavior for 2 weeks. Moreover, the number of symptoms essential to be diagnosed with dysthymia and MDD also differs. As the former requires a minimum of two symptoms, the second necessitates no fewer than five.

Lastly, MDD impacts individuals two ways that dysthymia does not. Those with MDD may experience psychomotor agitation, that is seen as a making aimless movements, and be not able to take pleasure in the activities they used to like, a phenomenon referred to as anhedonia.

What might these details mean for me personally?

If you're exhibiting the signs of dysthymia, do not fret. There are effective treatment options that will help enhance your standard of living. Research suggests that various antidepressant medications are successful in aiding individuals with dysthymia. Additionally, psychotherapy is useful, especially when combined with medication. Aside from these methods to treatment, there are more ways of managing dysthymia. These strategies include exercising consistently, consuming a nutritious diet, venting to some trusted peer or family member, journaling about how exactly you are feeling, and creating achievable goals. 

Conclusory points

In summary, dysthymia is a milder type of depression that triggers someone to experience symptoms for a longer period of time than MDD. Meanwhile, other key differences between these two diagnoses include variations in symptomatology and the quantity of symptoms necessary for an analysis. While dysthymia is regarded as a less intense form of MDD, it should not be ignored. Dysthymia can make it difficult for people to function and take part in day to day activities.

Subsequently, should you or perhaps a family member have the aforementioned symptoms, it is definitely worth trying for help. There are many resources open to assist you in understanding dysthymia, which can help you live a content and fulfilling life.

Note: Although I cite a source that utilizes the DSM-IV, information about dysthymia in this article is in line with those of the DSM-V.