Have you ever felt tired, uninterested in life, or down? You might think, "Oh... that's just how I am." But you may not know it, and you may be suffering from a condition called Dysthymia, or Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD). This is also a form of depression.
What is the difference between depression and dysthymia?
Simply put, dysthymia is a slow, long-lasting, sad, and hopeless mood. It is very similar to the condition we all know as Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). But the main difference is the duration.
A person with dysthymia may have fewer symptoms than someone with major depression. But those symptoms can last for up to 2 years . You may have had this condition since you were a child and not even recognize it. Because it tends to come and go, but it never completely goes away.
On the other hand, in a condition called major depressive disorder (MDD), the symptoms are very severe, but they are short-lived. That is, the severe symptoms are clearly visible for at least two weeks .
The important thing is that there are effective treatments for both of these conditions, so you don't have to carry the burden of your feelings alone.
How can you distinguish between the two based on symptoms?
Both conditions share several common symptoms. The main one is feeling sad and depressed most of the day. Your doctor will ask you about these symptoms to determine if you have dysthymia.
Let's look at this table to clearly understand this difference.
| Dysthymia/PDD | Major Depression (MDD) |
|---|---|
| Duration: Symptoms last for at least 2 years (1 year for children). Even if relief occurs, it does not last more than 2 months. | Duration: Symptoms last for at least 2 weeks . |
| Number of symptoms: In addition to a sad mood, at least 2 of the following symptoms are present. | Number of symptoms: Presence of at least 5 of the following symptoms. |
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What is "Double Depression"?
Sometimes, someone with dysthymia may develop major depressive disorder (MDD) at some point in their life. This means that on top of the long-term sadness, other severe symptoms are added. Doctors call this condition "double depression."
What are the reasons that cause these situations?
There is no single reason why this is happening. Experts believe that a combination of factors may be at play.
- Biological causes: High levels of stress can cause changes in your brain. Changes in the functioning of natural chemicals in the brain, called neurotransmitters, can also contribute to depression.
- Family history: If one of your close relatives has depression, you are at higher risk of developing it too.
- Life events: Events that have a profound impact on the mind, such as the death of a loved one, financial problems, or job loss, can trigger depression.
How does a doctor diagnose this?
There is no specific lab test to diagnose depression or dysthymia. When you see a doctor, they will talk to you at length about your symptoms, your thoughts and feelings, how long you have had the condition, and how it has affected your daily life.
However, you may need to have blood tests to see if there is another physical cause for your symptoms. For example, hypothyroidism, a condition in which there is a decrease in thyroid hormone, can also cause symptoms similar to depression. These tests can help rule out such conditions. If necessary, your doctor may refer you to a psychiatrist or counselor.
What are the treatments for this?
The good news is that there are treatments for both of these conditions. Usually, a combination of treatments is used.
- Medication: Your doctor may prescribe you a type of medication called antidepressants. These work by balancing chemicals in the brain. Some medications can take several weeks to work. Never stop taking your medication without asking your doctor.
- Therapy: Talking about your thoughts and feelings with a therapist or counselor is very important. Through this, you can learn ways to control your thoughts, manage stress, and improve social relationships.
- Lifestyle changes: Things like eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and avoiding alcohol and drugs can help your mind and body a lot.
How can you help a friend or family member?
If your loved one is suffering from this condition, there are several ways you can help.
Remember, saying things like "think about it and fix it" or "think a little harder" won't help. Instead, it's important to listen to them.
- Talk openly: Many people are embarrassed to talk about depression. Let them know that it's normal and that you're there to listen.
- Suggest seeking help: If you see your loved one having these symptoms, gently suggest that they see a doctor.
- Be aware of the risk of suicide: If your loved one talks about death, that life is meaningless, or hints at suicide, see a doctor immediately or take them to the nearest hospital emergency room (ETU) . You can also call the national mental health helpline number 1926.
- Stay in touch: Check in with them regularly by calling or texting them. Even if they say they can't come, ask them to go out together.
- Think about yourself too: Living with someone who is depressed can be mentally taxing on you too. Think about your own mental health too. Take a break.
Take-Home Message
- Dysthymia is a long-term depressive disorder that lasts for years. Although the symptoms are less severe than those of major depression, they persist.
- Although Major Depression is short-lived, the symptoms are very severe.
- Both conditions can be caused by chemical changes in the brain, family history, and traumatic events in life.
- Both of these conditions can be successfully treated through medication, counseling, and positive lifestyle changes.
- If you or someone you know has these symptoms, never delay seeking medical advice.
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