Do you rarely feel joy and happiness but are not severely depressed? Do you function well even though you feel you have little to look forward to in life? Have you lost interest in things that
should bring you joy? If this sounds like you, you may have dysthymia. Although dysthymia and major depression have similarities, it is important to understand the difference between these two disorders.
Dysthymia is considered to be less severe but more chronic than other types of depression, such as
major depressive disorder.
Differences and similarities between dysthymia and major depression
Dysthymia is a continuous and long-term form of depression. People with dysthymia find it difficult to feel cheerful even during happy occasions. They’ve felt this way for so long they may not remember what it feels like not to be depressed. In contrast, people with major depressive disorder experience normal moods when they are not in the midst of a depressive episode.
There is much overlap between symptoms of depression and symptoms of dysthymia. The main differences between the disorders are
time and
intensity. For a person to be diagnosed with major depressive disorder, depressive symptoms must last for at least two weeks. In contrast, a diagnosis of dysthymia requires symptoms last at least two years.
Symptoms of depression and dysthymia
The following symptoms are characteristic for both dysthymia (occurring for 2 years or more) and major depression (occurring for 2 weeks or more):
- Depressed/sad mood for most of the day, more days than not, as defined subjectively or by the observation of others
- Overeating or not eating enough
- Low energy or fatigue
- Low self-esteem
- Poor concentration
- Difficulty making decisions
- Feeling hopeless
- Irritability
- Loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyed
- Anxiety and worry
Therapy and treatment options
Dysthymia and depression are serious disorders and should not be ignored. It is important to know both dysthymia and depression are highly treatable disorders. Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and
psychotherapy have been shown to be effective for depression and dysthymia. CBT targets negative thinking in a way that encourages examination and restructuring of thoughts and belief systems.
For dysthymia, in particular, many people do not seek treatment. This is unfortunate, as an ongoing depressed mood can have a serious, negative impact on your quality of life and physical health. With treatment, you can release the beliefs and thought patterns that are keeping in you in an unhappy mood and without motivation. With the support and development of new skills in therapy, you can feel better and guide your own life down a more fulfilling and satisfying path.
Therapy in Overland Park
For depression therapy in Overland Park with
Caryn Hess,
get in touch today. Call today, or fill out the contact form for a complimentary consultation and take the first step to a truly liberated life.
