mental wellbeing Post

Dysthymia: What You Need to Know

Dysthymia refers to chronic depression that can last for years. It is also known as persistent depressive disorder. What is Dysthymia? To expand on the dysthymia definition, it can be helpful to compare it with normal depression symptoms . It is the presence of the symptoms over a long period of time that makes dysthymia different from any other form of depression. The feeling of sadness or hopelessness can last for years and begin to affect a person’s normal life. You can become a gloomy person who can’t feel happy even on the happiest of the occasions. Recommended Read:  5 Early Signs of Depression Causes and Symptoms of Dysthymia The causes of dysthymia can be the same as any other depressive disorder. It can be inherited or occur due to a problem with the neurotransmitters in the brain. Traumatic events in life can also trigger depression that may last for years to come. Trauma can cause depression even later in life even if the events took place years earlier. The dysthymia depression symptoms can differ in their severity levels over the years. The usual symptoms are – Loss of usual interest in daily activities Hopelessness permeating every aspect of the life Lack of energy, extreme fatigue Poor self-esteem Indecisiveness Troubled sleep Reduced or increased appetite Irritability If you feel depressive feelings are taking over your life or if the symptoms do not improve after a few weeks; it is a good idea to see a doctor or a therapist.