How Common Is Dysthymia

As the studies show 3% of the population may be suffering through dysthymia at any point of time while within a lifetime it affects about 6% of people. As it is hard to detect it earlier a time lapse of 10 years could be there before a person realizes its presence. In general people having a major depression in any of the immediate relatives are more prone to dysthymia. Also approximately 10% of people suffering through dysthymia develop major depression and the presence of both of them simultaneously is referred to as `Double Depression’.

Due to unknown reasons, like most of the types of depression it is more commonly diagnosed in women. Also along with depressive disorder symptoms, other personality disorders like narcissistic, histrionic, avoidant etc may also be associated. The unpleasant feelings due to Dysthymia may lead the person to the substance abuse like drugs or alcohol for a temporary relief.

Symptoms and Diagnosis Of Dysthemia

As highlighted earlier the major symptoms include low self-worth and low self esteem, with a gloomy attitude towards life, hopelessness, low energy levels and fatigue. Low appetite or over eating, Lack of sleep or too much of sleep. Poor concentration and difficulty making decisions also hinder the normal day to day life functioning of the patient. When these symptoms exist at least for one year and continuosly for two years, they indicate towards Dysthymia.

The diagnosis is made on the basis of pattern of these mental and physical conditions as they are observed or informed by the patient and also for how long they were prevalent. There could be certain other complications might be accompanied, so a proper diagnosis can only be made by an qualified mental health proffessional.

What is Dysthymic Disorder Or Dysthymia

Dysthymic disorder or dysthymia is one of the mood disorders which falls under the category of Depression. Clinically it is registered as Anhedonia, including the major charecterstics of lack of enthusiasm, lack of energy, fatigue and in general a gloomy view of life with a difficulty in enjoyment or pleasure. Along with these symptoms lack of sleep or over sleeping, lack of appetitite or over eating and a feeling of hopelessness are also accompanied. It affects the person from a normal day to day functioning and for longer durations is a prelude of major depression and suicidal tendencies. This disorder often goes unnoticed and hence untreated. It has its onset in early teenage and lasts at least for two years and maximum for a lifetime. The Irony is that the person suffering could not easily make out its presence, only after suffering for a considerable time time they come to know about it.