Dysthymia is a form of long-term depression that produces symptoms that are not as disabling as those that would be needed to qualify for a diagnosis of major depression. Dysthymia is also known as dysthymic disorder.
Signs and symptoms of dysthymia can vary among affected individuals and can vary in severity. Symptoms may include
- sadness,
- anger,
- general discontent,
- guilt,
- hopelessness,
- loss of interest in daily activities,
- excessive hunger,
- fatigue, or
- loss of appetite.
Other associated symptoms and signs can include
- excess sleepiness or insomnia,
- lack of concentration or slowness in activity,
- indecisiveness,
- irritability, and
- low self-esteem.
Symptoms may last for years when untreated.
Cause of dysthymia
Like other forms of depression, it is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors.
Other dysthymia symptoms and signs
- Anger
- Excess Sleepiness or Insomnia
- Excessive Hunger
- Fatigue
- General Discontent
- Guilt
- Hopelessness
- Indecisiveness
- Irritability
- Lack of Concentration or Slowness in Activity
- Loss of Appetite
- Loss of Interest in Daily Activities
- Low Self-Esteem
- Sadness
Main Article on Dysthymia Symptoms and Signs
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