Depression comes in all forms, ranging from mild to severe cases. Dysthymic disorder, also known as dysthymia is a form of “low-grade” depression that is chronic. People with this condition might experience short periods of times with normal moods but the majority of the time will feel mildly to moderately depressed. Some people have “double depression” which means experiencing dysthymia as well as major depressive episodes. Some people who suffer from mild depression feel that there is nothing they can do as they have always been like that. The reality is that it can be treated no matter how long you have been suffering.
Although they will last for a long time, the symptoms associated with mild depression are lower in strength than those of major depression. They are chronic and that can make it hard to think of good times and live a full life.
People who have a sad, dark or low mood most of the time for 2 years or more are believed to suffer from mild depression. In the case of children as well as adolescents, irritability for at least one year is valid as well.
Besides, at least two of the following symptoms should be present at all times.
In order to determine if you have mild depression, your doctor or health care provider will ask you about your history of mental health symptoms such as mood. In some cases, they will also take blood and urine samples in order to eliminate the possibility of depression due to a medical cause.
The good news is that if you suffer from mild depression or dysthymia, there are many different things that you can try to do yourself to improve the condition. Some of them include:
Although medications will frequently work well at treating mild depression, they will not always produce effects to the same degree as when dealing with major depression. In addition, it is possible that they will take a bit longer to start working.
You should never stop taking your medication without talking to your doctor and this includes if you are experiencing side effects or feel better. When you and your doctor decide that you should stop taking the medication, you will not just suddenly stop taking it. Instead, your doctor will make a plan that slowly reduces your dose.
Many people who suffer from dysthymia find it helpful to have talk therapy of some sort. These therapies can be a great way to find somewhere to discuss how you feel and what you are thinking. It can also help you learn how to deal with your thoughts and feelings. There are several variations of talk therapy and these include:
Some people also find it helpful to join a support group that includes other people with the same problems. If you like this idea, you can ask your doctor or therapist for suggestions.
You should always make an appointment with your doctor if you have one of the following symptoms:
You should also pay attention to the following symptoms as they can indicate a suicide risk. If you or someone else develops them, you should get help immediately.