Dysthymic Disorder

Dysthymic disorder refers to a long term depression in which an individual experiences frequently low mood but is not too severe to be qualified as major depressive disorder. The affected person may lose interest in activities and may feel low esteem. A psychiatrist is often needed as early diagnosis and treatment helps reduce the intensity and halt the progression to a more serious condition. ^{[1] [2]}

Causes

            Dysthymia is often traced back to genes, neurochemical imbalances and emotional stress that could have occurred way back during childhood years or something that happened just recently.

            A large number of patients have an existing medical condition or another psychiatric illness like anxiety disorder or substance abuse disorder. ^[3] The environment is an important factor. Among the probable triggers are loss of a loved one, financial problem and any situation associated with high level of stress.  ^[4]

Symptoms

            Adult patients are observed to have low mood for most of the day and is ongoing for a period of at least two years. The criterion is relatively shorter for a pediatric patient which is only one year. The patient should have also experienced two symptom-free months. Among the symptoms are changes in appetite (poor appetite or excessive eating), difficulty initiating a sleep or oversleeping, low energy or feeling of exhaustion, low self-esteem, difficulty in concentrating on activities and feeling of losing hope.  ^[5]

Diagnosis

            An interview to the patient and to the persons who had directly observed the patient is important to analyze further the symptoms experienced by the patient. The family history as well as the medical history is checked. Certain laboratory exams may be performed to rule out medical illnesses that may cause the condition. ^[1]

Treatment

            Medications may be given for patients. Some forms of therapy may be helpful such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and insight-oriented or psychotherapy. To improve the condition, certain steps may be done including getting enough sleep, taking in balanced and nutritious diet, performing delightful activities, avoiding alcohol and illicit drugs and sharing out feelings to others people. It is also better for patients to be surrounded by people who have positive outlook in life. ^[1]

References:

1.      http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000918.htm

2.      http://www.webmd.com/depression/guide/chronic-depression-dysthymia

3.      http://www.health.harvard.edu/newsweek/Dysthymia.htm

4.      http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/dysthymia/DS01111/DSECTION=causes

5.      http://www.mentalhealth.com/dis/p20-md04.html