| Subject | Contents |
| Definition | A disorder with a chronic depressed mood; it is a mild form of depression . |
| Alternative Names | Neurotic depression (dysthymia); Dysthymic disorder; Chronic depression |
| Causes, incidence, and risk factors | The cause is unknown. The symptoms are not as severe as depression . However, affected people struggle most days with symptoms of depressed mood. It occurs more frequently in women than men and generally persists over a period of years. It can occur in children. |
| Symptoms | Depressed mood for most of the day Depressed more days than not Continues for 2 years or longer Poor appetite or overeating Insomnia or hypersomnia Low energy or fatigue Low self-esteem Poor concentration Feelings of hopelessness |
| Signs and tests | The person's own description of the behavior usually leads to diagnosis of the disorder. A physical examination is given to rule out physical cause, and a psychological evaluation is given to rule out other psychiatric disorders. |
| Treatment | Treatment consists of a combination of medication and therapy. The most common therapies are cognitive therapy and behavioral therapy. Often, higher doses of medications are necessary than for severe depression. |
| Support Groups | |
| Expectations (prognosis) | The overall outlook is good with treatment but the disorder may persist for several years. |
| Complications | Dysthymia can progress into a major depression, and itself carries a risk of suicide. |
| Calling your health care provider | Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you suffer from a persistent depressed mood. |
| Prevention | |
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