Dysthymic Disorder
DYSTHYMIC DISORDER & BRIEF THERAPY
DEPRESSION
Mild, chronic depression has probably existed as long as the human condition, although it has been referred to by various different names. The DSM-III replaced the term "neurotic depression" with dysthymic disorder--which literally means ill-humored'-and it was added to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 1980
Dysthymic disorder, also called dysthymia, is a type of depression involving long-term chronic symptoms that do not disable an individual, but keep them from functional at full steam or from feeling good.
Despite the long-term nature of this type of depression, psychotherapy is effective in reducing the symptoms of depression, and assisting the person in managing his/her life better.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
Characterized by a chronic course (i.e., seldom without symptoms), with lowered mood tone and arrange of other symptoms that may include feelings of inadequacy, loss of self-esteem, or self-deprecation; feelings of hopelessness or despair; feelings of guilt, brooding about past events, or self-pity; low energy and chronic tiredness; being less active or talkative than usual; poor concentration and indecisiveness; and inability to enjoy pleasurable activities.
IDENTIFYING DYSTHYMIC DISORDER
Negative thoughts and thinking are characteristic of depression. Pessimism, poor self-esteem, excessive guilt, and self-criticism are all common.
You might lack motivation, becoming more apathetic. You might feel "slowed down" and tired all the time. Sometimes irritability is a problem, and more difficulty controlling your temper.
Some people do not feel comfortable with other people, so social withdrawal is common.
Because of the chronic sadness, excessive crying is common.
Needless to say, someone who is this depressed does not do very much, so work productivity and household responsibilities suffer.
DEPRESSION
Mild, chronic depression has probably existed as long as the human condition, although it has been referred to by various different names. The DSM-III replaced the term "neurotic depression" with dysthymic disorder--which literally means ill-humored'-and it was added to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 1980
Dysthymic disorder, also called dysthymia, is a type of depression involving long-term chronic symptoms that do not disable an individual, but keep them from functional at full steam or from feeling good.
Despite the long-term nature of this type of depression, psychotherapy is effective in reducing the symptoms of depression, and assisting the person in managing his/her life better.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
Characterized by a chronic course (i.e., seldom without symptoms), with lowered mood tone and arrange of other symptoms that may include feelings of inadequacy, loss of self-esteem, or self-deprecation; feelings of hopelessness or despair; feelings of guilt, brooding about past events, or self-pity; low energy and chronic tiredness; being less active or talkative than usual; poor concentration and indecisiveness; and inability to enjoy pleasurable activities.
IDENTIFYING DYSTHYMIC DISORDER
Negative thoughts and thinking are characteristic of depression. Pessimism, poor self-esteem, excessive guilt, and self-criticism are all common.
You might lack motivation, becoming more apathetic. You might feel "slowed down" and tired all the time. Sometimes irritability is a problem, and more difficulty controlling your temper.
Some people do not feel comfortable with other people, so social withdrawal is common.
Because of the chronic sadness, excessive crying is common.
Needless to say, someone who is this depressed does not do very much, so work productivity and household responsibilities suffer.