Question 1

What is Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)?

Accepted Answer

Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD), formerly called dysthymia, is a chronic depressive condition characterized by a depressed mood for most of the day, more days than not, lasting at least 2 years in adults (1 year in children/adolescents), with additional depressive symptoms that may fluctuate in intensity. Episodes may meet criteria for major depression at times ("double depression").

Question 2

What are the symptoms of Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)?

Accepted Answer

Common symptoms of Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia) include: Persistent depressed mood most days, Low energy or fatigue, Low self-esteem, Poor concentration or indecisiveness, Sleep disturbance (insomnia or hypersomnia).

Question 3

How is Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia) diagnosed?

Accepted Answer

A. Depressed mood for most of the day, more days than not, for at least 2 years (1 year in youth). B. Presence, while depressed, of at least two of: poor appetite or overeating; insomnia or hypersomnia; low energy or fatigue; low self-esteem; poor concentration or difficulty making decisions; feelings of hopelessness. C. During the period, the individual has not been without the symptoms for more than 2 months at a time. D. Criteria for a major depressive episode may be continuously present for 2 years. E. No history of manic or hypomanic episode and criteria never met for cyclothymic disorder. F. Not better explained by persistent schizoaffective disorder, schizophrenia spectrum, or other psychotic disorders. G. Not attributable to a substance or another medical condition. H. Causes clinically significant distress or impairment.

Question 4

What treatments are available for Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)?

Accepted Answer

Treatment for Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia) typically includes medications, psychotherapy.

Question 5

Can Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia) be cured?

Accepted Answer

Chronic, fluctuating course with risk of superimposed major depressive episodes. Early detection, continuous treatment, and addressing comorbidities improve outcomes; residual symptoms are common without maintenance strategies.

Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)

Overview

Description

Prevalence

Age of Onset

DSM-5 Code

ICD-10 Code

Diagnostic Criteria

Symptoms

Prognosis

Evaluation

Specifiers

Neurobiology

Risk Factors

Comorbidities

Warning Signs

Impact On Life

Severity Levels

Treatment Goals

Prognosis Factors

When To Seek Help

Real Life Examples

Developmental Stages

Self Help Strategies

Treatment Approaches

Overdiagnosis Factors

Missed Diagnosis Factors

Seeking Help for Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)?