What is dysthymia?
Dysthymia is a chronic form of depression.
You may lose interest in normal daily activities, feel hopeless, lack productivity, and have low self-esteem and an overall feeling of inadequacy.
These symptoms last for years, so a person with dysthymia interferes with the rhythm of daily life, it is difficult to establish relationships, they cannot study properly or work at school or work.
Compared to depression, this form is mild, but due to its chronic nature, the patient must learn to live with the symptoms and manage the condition.
Psychotherapy and appropriate drug treatment are very effective, follow all the instructions of the attending physician.
Symptoms of dysthymia may include:
- Loss of interest in daily activities
- Sadness
- Hopelessness
- Tiredness and lack of energy
- Low self-esteem
- Self-criticism
- Trouble concentrating
- Trouble making decisions
- Irritability
- Avoidance of social activities
- Feelings of guilt and worries over the past
- Poor appetite or overeating
- Sleep problems
Causes
The exact cause of persistent depressive disorder isn't known. As with major depression, it may involve more than one cause, such as:
- Biological changes in the brain;
- Genetics, inheritance;
- Environmental factor, stress experienced in life (loss of a loved one, financial problems, severe stress, etc.).
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/persistent-depressive-
disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20350929
