Dysthymia
Dysthymia is a mild but long-lasting (chronic) form of depression Symptoms usually last for 2 years or longer Dysthymia prevents the patient from enjoying life
During dysthymia, the patient loses interest in daily activities, feels hopeless, unproductive, has low self-esteem and feelings of inadequacy. Patients with dysthymia cannot coordinate normally and constantly complain
The exact cause of dysthymia is unknown The causes of dysthymia may overlap with the causes of general depression:
- Biochemical causes Patients with dysthymia may experience physical changes in the brain The significance of these changes is not yet known, but their presence may be helpful in determining the cause
- Genetic reasons Dysthymia is common in people whose blood relatives have a similar condition
- Environmental factors Like depression, dysthymia can also be caused by environmental factors Dysthymia is sometimes caused by a difficult environmental factor, such as the loss of a loved one, financial problems, or stress
Symptoms of dysthymia in adults:
- Loss of interest in daily activities
- Boredom
- Hopelessness
- Fatigue and lack of energy
- Low self-esteem, self-criticism and feeling of inability
- Decision-making and concentration Symptoms of dysthymia in children:
- Irritability
- Behavioral problems
- Poor academic performance at school
- Pessimistic attitude
- Inappropriate social qualities
- Low self-esteem
If dysthymia develops before the age of 21, it is called early-onset dysthymia. If dysthymia develops over the age of 21, it is called late-onset dysthymia
When to see a doctor
- It is normal for a person to feel sad sometimes in unhappy and stressful situations. However, in dysthymia, these disturbances persist for years and interfere with relationships, work, and daily activities.
- Because negative feelings stay with patients for a long time, they think that these feelings are part of their life. However, if you have symptoms of dysthymia, be sure to seek medical attention Without medical intervention, dysthymia turns into severe depression Sometimes, a major depressive episode occurs with dysthymia, a condition called double depression
- Tell your doctor about your symptoms or see a mental health professional directly If you don't want to talk to a doctor, talk to someone else who can help you: a friend, spouse, teacher, etc Sh
