About What Is Dysthymia: What Is Dysthymia?

What is dysthymia and how is it related to depression? Depression not only affects the person who is going through it, but also everyone around them, including friends, family, loved ones, spouses, and children.

FAQ’s about Dysthymia

What is Dysthymia?

Dysthymia is a chronic type of depression' where a person will have a mild depression for a long period of time.

What are the other alternative names for Dysthymia?

Neurotic depression (Dysthmia)' Chronic Depression and Dysmythic disorder.

How common is it?

Nearly 5% of the people suffer from dysthymia at some point in their lives. It is known to affect in early childhood.

What causes Dysthymia?

The exact cause is not known. It is known to affect more women than men' and 5% of the population suffer from dysthymia. Heredity (genes) plays a role' and people with a family history of depression and dysthymia are at a risk of getting this chronic condition. It has also been found that the stresses of life is another contributing factor for dysthymia.

What are the symptoms?

Low or sad mood for a long period of time
Over eating or lack of appetite
Insomnia
Withdrawal
Fatigue or tiredness
Loss of interest
Unable to enjoy any activity
Difficulty in making decision' thinking or concentrating
Low mental and physical stability
Feeling of guilt
Feelings of death and suicide

Can dysthymia lead to major depression?

Many suffer dysthymia in early ages' and if this is left undiagnosed the possibility of such people suffering from major depression is high.

What are the tests done for Dysthymia?

The Physician will take note of the past history of your condition and health.

What treatment is best for Dysthymia?

Tricyclic antidepressantsSelective serotonin reuptake inhibitorsPsychotherapy What is the prognosis?

Dysthymia is a chronic condition that lasts for over many years. Though some may completely recover' there are others who continue to live with the symptoms.

What are the complications?

If not properly treated' it can turn into a major depressive mood. This is known as ‘double depression’.

When should you seek help?

If any of the above symptoms prevail for more than a month. Quite often the person suffering from the illness may not be aware of the condition that he/she may go through as such it is best that those around get help if these symptoms are noticed.

What should be done if you are suffering from dysthymia?

Talk first to your Doctor.
Learn about this condition.
Participate in support group discussions.
Think of the root cause for this condition.
Cultivate a positive attitude.
Focus on positive things.
Be active.
Exercise daily.
Stop blaming yourself. You are not at fault.

REMEMBER' DO NOT BE SHY TO GET HELP. DYSTHYMIA IS TREATABLE AND CURABLE.