Everybody occasionally has a depressed mood, sleepless night, or period of hopelessness or fatigue. However, if these and other symptoms have become a regular part of your life, you might have dysthymia. While dysthymia could greatly impair day-to-day functioning, with appropriate care, it is manageable. At Washington Center for Women’s and Children’s Wellness (WCWCW), the specialists employ innovative techniques and tools to effectively address dysthymia in patients of all ages. Arrange an appointment to discuss your concerns and explore your care options. Meanwhile, continue reading to learn everything you need to know about Dysthymia Bethesda.
What Exactly Is Dysthymia?
Dysthymia, commonly known as persistent depressive disorder (PDD), is a minor but chronic type of depression. As this condition is chronic, persons with dysthymia could get used to having this feeling and assume that it is usual, while it is not.
Dysthymia could have detrimental implications on both physical and mental well-being. This condition can compromise your objectives, work, relationships, and everyday activities. Persons with dysthymia might find themselves frequently unhappy and whining or find it challenging to be cheerful, even on joyful occasions.
What Are The Common Causes Of Dysthymia?
Although the reasons for chronic depression are not fully understood, it is probably a mix of biological, genetic, and environmental factors. Studies show variations in brain chemistry between people with and without depression.
Specifically, neurotransmitters like serotonin, which regulate mood and assist in maintaining the body in harmony, are significantly lower in depressed individuals. As such, antidepressants aim to boost the level of serotonin and other neurochemicals that the brain can use.
What Are The Common Symptoms Of Dysthymia?
Symptoms of dysthymia might vary from one person to another. However, typical symptoms to look out for include:
- Feelings of despondency or melancholy
- Fatigue
- Poor self-esteem
- Excessive eating or loss of appetite
- Decreased efficiency
- Irritability
- Abstention from social activities
- Absence of desire for enjoyable activities
- Trouble concentrating
- Sleep issues, including insomnia
How To Diagnose Dysthymia?
Only a medical physician, psychiatrist, or qualified therapist can diagnose dysthymia. Your provider will probably assess your concerns to rule out other mood disorders, including bipolar disorder and major depression.
The primary distinction between dysthymia and serious depression is the duration of symptoms. For adults, depressive concerns should exist throughout most of the day for not less than two years. As for kids, these concerns should exist for not less than a year.
How To Treat Dysthymia?
You must not have dysthymia to seek medical attention. If you observe any warning signs, there are effective therapy alternatives to improve your life quality.
Psychotherapy and medicine are the principal therapies. Some individuals require a blend of the two. It is equally vital to address the psychosocial and psychological elements of depression as it is to treat its underlying cause.
Throughout psychotherapy, you talk with a skilled mental health expert who can assist you in identifying and overcoming potential triggers for your depression. Your therapist will listen, offer feedback, and assist you in developing stress-relieving skills.
Having hope for recovery from dysthymia could be difficult, especially if depression has been a component of your daily life for a long. However, with the correct specialist help, you could feel better and return to your normal self. Washington Center for Women’s and Children’s Wellness (WCWCW) creates a customized care plan that can help you regain your footing. Arrange an appointment through mobile or book online to determine the treatment appropriate for you.
