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It's okay to have tough days, but if you've been experiencing persistent low mood and other symptoms of depression, it could be a sign of something more serious. If this is the case, it's essential to seek help.
What is dysthymia?
Dysthymia is a form of depression that lasts for at least 2 years. How you feel can vary over time, with some days and weeks feeling better, but if more than half of the days are characterized by depression, you may have dysthymia.
There is rarely a single cause but rather a combination of genetic, psychological and environmental factors. Severe events such as loss, trauma and prolonged stress can also lead to the development of the condition. There may also be underlying biological explanations such as a lack of serotonin or noradrenaline. It is essential to seek help; you do not have to struggle alone.
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Is dysthymia chronic depression?
If you have been depressed and had symptoms of depression that have lasted for more than two years, the condition is said to be chronic. Dysthymia is, therefore, seen as a form of relief from chronic depression. If you have an undefined feeling of anxiety or depression, do not hesitate to seek out a professional therapist to help you. It is a treatable condition, and at Lavendla, we can help you.
Symptoms of long-term depression
Dysthymia is a persistent low mood; more than half of the days are characterized by low mood. You should also have at least two other depressive symptoms, which are fewer than in ordinary depression, and the mood should not follow directly from ordinary depression but be more independent. Here are some common symptoms:
- Decreased energy or activity
- Difficulty sleeping
- Reduced self-confidence
- Feelings of inadequacy
- Difficulty concentrating
- Frequent crying spells
- Reduced enjoyment in activities that usually brought pleasure
- Feelings of hopelessness or abandonment
- A perceived inability to cope with the usual responsibilities of everyday life
- Pessimism about the future or brooding about past events
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Other conditions, such as anxiety, ADHD and PTSD
If left untreated, other psychological conditions can turn into dysthymia or depression over time. This may be because you become more depressed if you withdraw from things and events, as in anxiety and PTSD. You may experience difficulties coping with things that others can do and become depressed. It is essential to get a basic assessment when seeking help so that you can also get treatment for other conditions that may be underlying dysthymia.
There are effective treatments
If you suffer from dysthymia, it is possible to get help. Treatment can vary depending on the severity of the condition and individual needs. Usually, this is included in the treatment:
- Psychotherapy: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) helps identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviours that may contribute to the condition. Other forms of treatment, such as interpersonal and psychodynamic therapy, can also be effective.
- Medications: Medications may be prescribed to treat dysthymia, and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are common types of antidepressants used.
- Combination treatment: Psychotherapy and medication may be most effective for some people.
- Lifestyle changes: A healthy lifestyle can have positive effects on mood. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and getting enough sleep can all help improve mood.
If you or someone you know is suffering from dysthymia, seeking professional help from a doctor, psychologist, or other qualified therapist is essential for a thorough assessment and treatment. It is easy to get stuck in a pattern of negative thoughts and behaviours that make it challenging to change independently. At Lavendla, we are here to help you feel better.
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We make the difficult easier
Experiencing difficult emotions is common, but sometimes, you may need support. Therapy is essential in improving your quality of life and can help you deal with different issues. At Lavendla, we have therapists and psychologists who can help you. We make the hard things easier.
If you or someone you know has thoughts of self-harm, call SADAG on 0800 567 567 or seek emergency medical help immediately.
12 FAQs about Dysthymia
What is dysthymia?
Dysthymia is a form of depression that lasts for at least two years, with symptoms at least half the time.
What are the most common symptoms of dysthymia?
Dysthymia is a form of relieving constant depression. You also have at least two symptoms of depression, such as persistent sadness, lack of energy, sleep problems and a reduced appetite. Consultation with a psychologist or therapist can help make a diagnosis.
What causes chronic depression?
Multiple causes often cause its development, combining genetic, psychological, and environmental factors. Severe events can also be risk factors, but biological explanations can cause the condition.
How is dysthymia treated?
Treatment options often include a combination of medication, therapy and lifestyle changes. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a common form of psychological treatment, but other methods can also be helpful.
What is the difference between regular depression and dysthymia?
Dysthymia is a condition that resembles depression but does not meet all the criteria for major depression. Dysthymia also lasts for a more extended period and is considered mild and chronic, but it is treatable.
How long is a treatment for dysthymia?
The length of treatment can vary depending on the severity and individual needs.
Can children have dysthymia?
Children, like adults, can suffer from low mood and even depression. It is essential to seek help quickly if you feel that your child has symptoms of depression.
Can exercise help?
Regular physical activity has been shown to improve mood and mental health. However, it should not replace professional care and medication.
What are the risk factors for dysthymia?
Stress, trauma, and personal adversity are common risk factors, but there are other causes, such as underlying neuropsychiatric problems, genetic factors or biological causes.
Is depression more common in men or women?
Depression, in general, is more common in women, but men are less likely to seek help.
How does dysthymia affect relationships?
Depression can make it challenging to maintain healthy relationships and can lead to social isolation. Therefore, it is essential to seek help to break the pattern.
Where can I get help?
If you experience symptoms of dysthymia, it is essential to seek professional help. Our psychologists and therapists are available for online or face-to-face sessions and can help you make the complex more manageable.
What help is available for dysthymia?
Seeking help is a big step towards better health. It is a favourable decision to take control of how you feel. Here is an overview of the steps usually involved in therapy.
Step 1: An initial assessment session
The first meeting with your psychologist or therapist is usually a diagnostic assessment to review your mental and physical health. You may be asked questions about your life situation, feelings, thoughts and behaviours. You may also be asked to complete assessment forms.
Step 2: Goal setting
This is where you and your therapist set both short and long-term goals for the therapy.
Step 4: Treatment
This is the start of the treatment phase, which may include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or other treatment methods, as well as medication if necessary. The therapy may consist of exercises and homework assignments to give you tools to change how you feel.
Step 5: Monitoring and evaluation
Treatment is monitored regularly to see how well the therapy is working. If necessary, the treatment plan can be adjusted or renewed.
Step 6: Ending and looking ahead
As the therapy ends, it is time to reflect on the progress. You will also receive a plan for using the tools and strategies you have learned in the future.
If you or someone close to you is seeking professional help for depression, don’t hesitate to book a session with one of our qualified psychologists or therapists. If you feel terrible and have thoughts of harming yourself, contact the emergency psychiatric services or call SADAG on 0800 567 567.
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