About this topic
Dysthymia is a long-term but mild form of depression. If you have feelings of sadness that last for 2 years or longer, you may have dysthymia. It can begin in childhood or adulthood. It has mental and physical signs that are milder than those in people with major depression. Some may include feelings of sadness, worry, low energy, and changes in sleep and eating patterns. ‚
The exact cause of dysthymia is not known. It may be caused by many factors like a family history, lack of social support, or stress. Sometimes, it may be caused by long-term illnesses like thyroid problems. ‚
Treatment may include drugs for low mood along with some type of talk therapy. ‚
What are the causes?
The cause is not known but it may be passed down from other family members. It may be caused by a mild hormone imbalance. Chronic illnesses may also cause the problem. Dysthymia may be caused by the changes in the levels of hormones made by your thyroid gland. ‚
What can make this more likely to happen?
- Runs in families
- Women are more likely to have
What are the main signs?
- Sadness
- Feeling tired and worried
- Empty feeling
- Stops activities and friendships that were once enjoyed
- Lower energy level
- Lack of sleep or sleeping too much
- Changes in appetite
- Problems with memory and focus
- Not as severe as depression
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
- Your doctor will ask about your medical and mental health history.
- Your doctor may measure your height and weight and check your heart rate, blood pressure, and temperature. Your doctor will also listen to your heart and lungs and check your belly.
- Your doctor may check your neck for an enlarged thyroid.
- Your doctor may ask about your feelings, thoughts, and behavior.
- Your doctor will do an exam and may order:
- Lab tests
- Thyroid function tests
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
Your doctor may treat you with: ‚
- Psychotherapy ¢ ˆ ’ A talk therapy used to treat emotional problems and mental health concerns
- Drugs for low mood
- Combined treatment of therapy and drugs
Are there other health problems to treat?
If you have a thyroid problem, your doctor will treat it. ‚
What lifestyle changes are needed?
- Eat a healthy diet with a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and grains.
- Limit sugar and starches in your diet. Ask your doctor about a diet plan for you.
- Make time for 6 to 8 hours of sleep at night and rest periods during the day .
- Increase physical activities and exercise. Try walking, jogging, swimming, or doing the activities you like. Be sure to ask your doctor what exercise is best for you.
- Try to relax and avoid stress. Learn about and practice relaxation skills like yoga, meditation, deep breathing, and massage.
- Limit time you spend with people and events that raise your stress.
- Avoid use of street drugs and beer, wine, and mixed drinks (alcohol).
- Avoid smoking.
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Manage signs of low mood
- Restore healthy blood levels of thyroid hormones
- Balance hormones
- Help you sleep better at night
- Relieve tension
Will there be any other care needed?
- Go to talk therapy if suggested by your doctor.
- Take all the drugs ordered by your doctor. Do not miss doses of your drugs. If you stop taking your drugs, your signs will come back.
- Keep a journal where you can express your feelings and thoughts.
- Try to read self help books and talk about this with your doctor.
- Connect with family and friends who can provide support.
- Contact your doctor if you have any changes in your mood.
- Join a support group. This can help you understand and live well with your illness.
Where can I learn more?
Better Health Channel ‚
http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Depression_and_teenagers ‚
http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Depression_different_types ‚
FamilyDoctor.org ‚
http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/diseases-conditions/dysthymic-disorder.printerview.all.html ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚