Dysthymic Disorder

Find a counsellor dealing with Dysthymic Disorder >>

This type of depression is less severe than major depression, however occurs on a daily basis for a number of years (the symptoms are not as severe as major depression where sufferers experience several at one time). Although this type of depression is a long-term disorder, counselling and psychotherapy can be an effective way of reducing the symptoms. Some patients find that this combined with antidepressant medication helps them to manage their illness, and therefore their lives, a lot better.

Dysthymia can develop at an early stage in an individual's life; due to this it is common for sufferers to think it is a normal way of feeling and many people with the disorder say they cannot remember not feeling depressed. Sufferers tend not to seek help for a number of years, however this just means delaying treatment. It isn't uncommon for sufferers of dysthymia to experience a major depressive episode.

Approximately 3% of the population suffer from dysthymic disorder; therefore it is quite a common type of depression. It is however much more common in women than in men but research has not yet been able to state why. Dysthymic disorder is usually diagnosed if an individual suffers from some of the symptoms below on a daily basis for at least 2 years.

Symptoms:

Persistent sad, anxious or empty feelings

Feeling constantly pessimistic

Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness

Loss of interest in hobbies or activities

Tiredness and loss of energy

Difficulty concentrating, remembering, making decisions

Insomnia, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping

Change in appetite and/or weight loss or weight gain

Thoughts of death or suicide

Persistent physical symptoms, such as headaches, digestive disorders, and chronic pain

Causes

Medical Help and Treatment

--
All content displayed on Counselling Directory is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the advice given by any professional.