Are There Other Treatments Available for Dysthymia?
Your doctor can explain other treatments for dysthymia and major depression.
Some people with seasonal depression find good relief with light therapy.
Electroconvulsant therapy (ECT) is another treatment that may be used if major
depression isn't responding to antidepressant medications. If you are
experiencing manic (highly elated) episodes along with the chronic depression,
your doctor may want to try a mood-stabilizing drug, such as lithium, or an
anticonvulsant.
What Else Can I Do to Feel Better?
Getting an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment is a major step in
feeling better with chronic depression. In addition, ask your doctor about the
benefits of healthy lifestyle habits such as eating a well-balanced diet,
getting regular exercise, avoiding alcohol and smoking, and being with close
friends and family members for strong social support. These positive habits are
also important in improving mood and well-being.
Can Dysthymia Worsen?
It's not uncommon for a person with dysthymia to also experience major
depression at the same time -- swinging into a major depressive episode and
then back to a more mild state of dysthymia. This is called double
depression. That's why it's so important to seek an early and accurate
medical diagnosis. Your doctor can then recommend the most effective treatment
to help you feel yourself again.
WebMD Medical Reference
SOURCES:
National Institute of Mental Health: "What is Depression?"
American Academy of Family Physicians: "Dysthymic Disorder: When Depression
Lingers."
Fieve, R. Bipolar II, Rodale, 2006.
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th
Edition (DSM-IV).
Stress occurs when forces from the outside world impinge on the individual. Stress is a normal part of life. However, over-stress, can be harmful. There is now speculation, as well as some evidence, that points to the abnormal stress responses as being involved in causing various diseases or conditions.
Depression is an illness that involves the body, mood, and thoughts and affects the way a person eats and sleeps, the way one feels about oneself, and the way one thinks about things. The principal types of depression are major depression, dysthymia, and bipolar disease (also called manic-depressive disease).
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Smoking is an addiction. More than 430,000 deaths occur each year in the U.S. from smoking related illnesses. Secondhand smoke or "passive smoke" also harm family members, coworkers, and others around smokers. There are a number of techniques available to assist people who want to quit smoking.
Insomnia is the perception or complaint of inadequate or poor-quality sleep because of difficulty falling asleep; waking up frequently during the night with difficulty returning to sleep; waking up too early in the morning; or unrefreshing sleep. Secondary insomnia is the most common type of insomnia. Treatment for insomnia include lifestyle changes, cognitive behavioral therapy, and medication.
Childhood depression can interfere with social activities, interests, schoolwork and family life. Symptoms and signs include anger, social withdrawal, vocal outbursts, fatigue, physical complaints, and thoughts of suicide. Treatment may involve psychotherapy and medication.
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Bipolar disorder, or manic-depressive illness, is a disorder that causes unusual and extreme mood changes. Symptoms of bipolar disorder in children and teens include having trouble concentrating, behaving in risky ways and losing interest in activities they once enjoyed. Treatment for bipolar disorder in children and teenagers incorporates psychotherapy and medications.
Depression in the elderly is very common. That doesn't mean, though, it's normal. Treatment may involve antidepressants, psychotherapy, or electroconvulsive therapy.
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