Dysthymia

Mild or chronic depression also known as Dysthymia is not as severe as major depression disorder. The symptoms in case of dysthymia can be around for a long period of time, may be two or three years too. It is seen that those who suffer from this disorder of dysthymia are bound to experience bouts of negative mood symptoms and major depression too.

Dysthymia Causes

Though there is a lot of research happening in this area, experts are still not able to figure out the exact causes of depression or dysthymia. Of course the genes or the hereditary factor can play a major role although it is not rare to see a person getting affected by this disorder although there is no family history of depression. The change in the level of brain chemicals that are produced in the brain can be a major cause.

Dysthymia Symptoms

Dysthymia Symptoms are almost the same as what we see in other cases of major depression although it may not be so intense.

Some of the Dysthymia Symptoms are as follows

•    Losing interest in things that was so enjoyable to them once upon a time
•    Sudden change in weight and appetite
•    Lack of sleep or excessive sleep on a daily basis
•    Restlessness
•    Loss of energy or feeling of fatigue almost every day
•    feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness combined with excessive guilt
•    Concentration problems and problems in decision making
•    Suicidal thoughts

Effects of Dysthymia

It is common to see a person suffering from dysthymia also experience major depression either at the same time or some time later. This situation is called double depression. It is equally important to identify the cause of this disorder and give the right medication to keep the effects of dysthymia not interfere with the person’s day to day living and positive mental attitude. Effects of dysthymia can be really nasty if the person does not take medical advice as soon as possible. Your physician can recommend the best treatment that can help you feel yourself again.

Dysthymia Test

A specialist can do the Dysthymia test based on the symptoms shown in a person. In case of dysthymia, the symptoms last for a long period of time and can be less severe than what we normally see in patients suffering from major depression. The doctor will also conduct a test to confirm that this condition is there in the person as a result of dysthymia and not hypothyroidism. A Dysthymia test can confirm the condition.  In case you find yourself in a state of depression for more than 2 weeks then it is time to visit your doctor. Your doctor would   perform a medical evaluation that consists of a Dysthymia test keeping in mind the family history and other details that are necessary. However, there is no need of any blood and X-ray test that are needed to confirm this disease.

While this disorder of dysthymia is considered as a serious illness, it is very much treatable. In any case if the problem is diagnosed early then it can be treated successfully.