Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)

Statue with hand on foreheadPersistent depressive disorder, also known as dysthymia, is the state of having a mild to moderate chronic depressed mood. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM), the symptoms of dysthymia are less severe than those of major depression, but the condition, being chronic, also tends to last longer than a major depressive episode.

Symptoms of Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)

The primary diagnostic feature of this condition, as stated in the DSM-5, is a depressed mood, which occurs on more days than it does not, for the better part of the day. The term persistent depressive disorder was introduced in the DSM-5 to represent the combining of what had been listed in previous editions as two separate conditions with remarkably similar symptoms: chronic major depressive disorder and dysthymic disorder. The term dysthymia is still commonly used to refer to what is now labeled persistent depressive disorder.

For dysthymia to be diagnosed, this mood must persist for at least two years, or for one year in the case of an adolescent (who may report feelings of irritability rather than sadness). If symptoms meet the diagnostic criteria for major depressive disorder in this two-year period, both conditions will generally be diagnosed.

This condition is distinguished from major depression by its duration; in other words, it is a chronic form of depression. Symptoms may increase in severity to the level of those experienced in a major depressive episode. Generally, they will once again decrease in severity but will not resolve entirely. Symptoms may vary over the course of the illness, but two or more of the following symptoms will be present consistently in combination with a chronically sad or depressed mood:

  • Feelings of hopelessness.
  • Depleted energy and lack of interest in hobbies, family, friends, or previously enjoyed activities.
  • Low self-esteem.
  • Overeating or poor appetite.
  • Difficulty concentrating.
  • Excessive sleeping or difficulty sleeping.

Often, symptoms of dysthymia can become such a part of daily life that they are not as likely to be reported, unless the person experiencing the symptoms is asked about them directly. It is somewhat common for a person with dysthymia to be unable to remember a time when the condition was not present, and the feelings of depression may have come to feel normal.

What Causes Dysthymia?

Dysthymia often begins with symptoms of traditional depression. It is common among the elderly and among people who are isolated, who have health problems, or who have another mental health condition. The condition appears to be more common in women than in men, and about 5% of the population suffers from dysthymia at least once. The condition may have a genetic element: Having a relative with either dysthymia or major depression appears to increase the likelihood of developing dysthymia. Parental loss or separation in childhood can be a risk factor for this condition, and brain chemistry might also increase a person’s chance of developing major depression or dysthymia.

DC1-03-dysthymiaTreatment for Dysthymia

Because the symptoms of dysthymia may be less pronounced than the overwhelming depression and suicidal ideation that often characterizes major depression, the condition can sometimes progress significantly before treatment is sought. Those with dysthymia might hold negative beliefs about the world or oneself or have a negative outlook on most aspects of life, but they may not remember a time when they did not feel that way and be unaware that they are experiencing a mental health condition. A delay of up to 10 years before seeking treatment is not uncommon in those who experience dysthymia. Thus, treatment may take longer. Untreated dysthymia also has the potential to progress to major depression.

A combination of therapy and medication can help alleviate the symptoms. Studies indicate that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is especially effective at treating chronic forms of depression. In therapy, any potential causes of dysthymia can be identified and addressed. Spontaneous remission—alleviation of symptoms for no apparent reason—may also occur.

In some cases, a psychiatrist may prescribe medication as a supplemental treatment to therapy: SSRIs are often effective at treating dysthymia, and clinicians may also prescribe other antidepressants such as Wellbutrin or tricyclic antidepressants. An anti-anxiety medication may also be beneficial to some.

References:

  1. American Psychological Association. (2009). APA Concise Dictionary of Psychology. Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.
  2. Dysthymia. (2010, November 18). Retrieved from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001916.
  3. Highlights of Changes from DSM-IV-TR to DSM-5. (2013). Retrieved from http://www.dsm5.org/Documents/changes from dsm-iv-tr to dsm-5.pdf.
  4. Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia). (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition. Arlington, Virginia: American Psychiatric Association.

Last Updated: 08-17-2015

  • 9 comments
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  • Dean E.

    April 21st, 2017 at 6:13 PM

    Suffer with severe depression and have had suicidal thoughts in past, I have no friends. Been divorced 3 x cant go a day without becoming irritated and angry, verbally abusive to loved ones, Im in severe pain and meds everyday for a decade. Also have a hip replacement, my relationships are great at first , then my wives always pull away and leave me, I cant remember things. Or get motivated to do anything, my wife says Im lazy, sex is great , but seems to be all Im good at. And not always, I spend hours in restroom on computer. Playing games and researching things, I shower but dont clean my house, dont mow the lawn unless my wife forces me to, What can I do? I blame everyone cause they fail me, they dont stick by me, Im a demanding man, jealous and controlling, Im conceated and only want things my way, am I suffering with this ailment? I have been in military, retired 20 year vet, also diagnosed with depression, I had an affair or almost did, talked to someone online for 8 months, then moved away from my wife and demanded an uncontested divorce, Im still married but my wife is hurt and upset about the sex talk and sharing my and her problems with a strange woman and doesnt believe me when I say I didnt cheat, she thinks I would have and says sex talk for 8 months is cheating, I lied about everything so thetes no more trust from her for me, help me, if I divorce again or if she leaves me I want to check oit and become a hermit

  • Steely D

    July 10th, 2017 at 12:59 PM

    Dean- hello friend, have you considered turning to God for comfort? Trust me, it really helps. Even if you have doubts, give Him a chance. Find a quiet place where you can be alone and unburden your heart. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain.

    You are a Veteran, so you are a strong man. Even strong men need the Lord. Check out the Mighty Oaks Warrior Programs, it would be perfect for you. Having purpose in life makes all the difference in the world. Humble yourself, soften your heart. Seek out your purpose, the man that you were created to be. I know that when I’m fulfilling my purpose, which is helping others, I feel better mentally and physically, and my relationships are better. When you get back on track, your relationships will be totally different. It would help to have men (Veterans, like you, who have been in your shoes) walk alongside you and help you through it.

    Do yourself a favor, check out Mighty Oaks. It’s a non-profit program, free for Veterans. I wish you the best and will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. -Steely

  • Lori

    August 23rd, 2017 at 6:06 PM

    my mother is in a severe state a mind of depression n then will kinda put me dopwn my sister quit talking to her n she treats vme awful outta her more less grief n depression n idk what kjind of therapy she needs

  • deric

    July 7th, 2018 at 5:39 PM

    I started feeling depression-the icy fingers I call it-about age 17. It lasted until age 50. At times so bad I’d have dreams of ghouls, be too hopeless to get out of the bathtub. Couldn’t eat a slice of bread. I had a job but had to leave for a while because of the depression. I went back a few months later though. My dad told me to sing while I worked and that helped to drown out the bad thoughts. If I still have depression I don’t recognize it-maybe some procrastination and lethargy. As a kid I was a skinny weakling but still had friends in school. I embarrassed myself many times having to give a speech. People were embarrassed for me I think. Now I’m still hopeful for my bigger goals such as piano so I’m working on what causes procrastination and the excessive drinking that compromises my ability to work on piano.

  • Lyla Peterson

    December 27th, 2019 at 8:00 AM

    I’m glad you mentioned low self-esteem and poor eating habits as symptoms of dysthymia. I have noticed that for the past year, I have had very little energy and have lost interest in my hobbies. Low self-esteem and overeating are also things I struggle with on a daily basis. It sounds like I should definitely see a mental health professional to be evaluated for dysthymia.

  • Pmitc22

    April 23rd, 2020 at 11:33 PM

    Depression & Social Anxiety
    Following chronic health issues & trauma, has formed a state of depression & social anxiety. After years into this state, it has seemingly developed finding contentment & preference in social separation post depression. The desire is not there unless initiated. Out of the depressed state, initiating & being socially active is fine. However, triggers to Both Depression & Social Anxiety cause serious setbacks/shutdowns when the interaction is overwhelming.

    For ex. Reaches out to a friend to check in & there’s exchanged texts. But somehow, this has led into this friend being a daily initiator (or even 3xs a week is too much). Overwhelmed with the unwanted activity, responsibility of not hurting their feelings, etc.
    It seems as if any time a friendly interaction comes about, the person is a stage 5 clinger & it takes completely shutting down to shake them. Still in poor physical health, mental & spiritually feeling better, but the grasp/pull from others setback process as taking on others/relationships that need constant or consistent nurturing & attention is impossible to manage while functioning properly within personal & family life. Presently, there’s a peace & comfort in being disengaged from outside of immediate family relations (2 other family members that understand & have stuck through this) that is preferred.

  • Ellie Phillips

    August 10th, 2020 at 6:34 PM

    emailed response #90915

    I am depressed I think and need counseling

  • Lee Ann

    August 30th, 2022 at 2:53 AM

    I have been depressed since i was diagnosed with breast cancer and got into meth and the last five years have been a total recluse not showering or interacting with life. Please help

  • Sara GT

    August 30th, 2022 at 11:28 AM

    Dear Lee Ann, We are so sorry to hear of your struggles and want to help. Perhaps you wish to consult with a therapist for support with your mental health? You can start finding therapists in your area by entering your city or ZIP code into the search field on this page: https://www.goodtherapy.org/find-therapist.html. Once you enter your information, you’ll be directed to a list of therapists and counselors who meet your criteria. You may click to view our members’ full profiles and contact the therapists themselves for more information. If you need help finding a therapist, you are welcome to call us. We are in the office Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Mountain Time, and our phone number is 888-563-2112 ext 3. Kind regards, The GoodTherapy Team

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