Greek Word/Definition
1. Dysthymia means "bad state of mind"
2. Defines as depressed mood, mild but chronic
References
Symptoms
Arnow BA, et al. “Effectiveness of Psychotherapy and Combination Treatment for Chronic Depression,” Journal of Clinical Psychology (Aug. 2003): Vol. 59, No. 8, pp. 893–905.
Griffiths J, et al. “Dysthymia: A Review of Pharmacological and Behavioral Factors,” Molecular Psychiatry (May 2000) Vol. 5, No. 3, pp. 242–61.
Klein DN, et al. “Dysthymia and Chronic Depression: Introduction, Classification, Risk Factors, and Course,” Journal of Clinical Psychology (Aug. 2003): Vol. 59, No. 8, pp. 807–16.
Whooley MA, et al. “Managing Depression in Medical Outpatients,” New England Journal of Medicine ( Dec. 28, 2000): Vol. 343, No. 26, pp. 1942–49.
Williams JW, Jr, et al. “Is This Patient Clinically Depressed?” Journal of the American Medical Association ( March 6, 2002) Vol. 287, No. 9, pp. 1160–70.
Loss of interest in daily activities
Feeling sad or down
Hopelessness
Overeating
Low self-esteem
Excessive guilt
Excessive anger
Lack Energy
Poor Concentration
Self Criticism
Avoiding social activities
Causes
Dysthymia runs through families and probably has hereditary component.
The rate of depression in families of people with dysthymia is as high as 50% for the early-onset form of this disorder.
Dysthymic Disorder
(Dysthymia)
Risk Factors
By: Warrens St. Remy
Biological relatives of dysthymia
Stress (life events)
More likely females to have this disorder
Complications
Reduced quality of life
Major depression
Suicidal Behavior
Substance abuse
Relationship difficulties
Family conflicts
Social isolation
School and work problems
Decreased productivity
Tests and diagnosis
Physical exams
Laboratory tests
Psychological evaluation
Diagnosis: Depressed mood(two or more years)
Treatments and drugs
Medications
Psychotherapy