Dysthymic Disorder

Dysthymia is a chronic mood disorder that falls within the depression spectrum. It is considered a chronic depression, but with less severity than major depressive disorder. This disorder tends to be a chronic, long-lasting illness. While Dysthymia shares the same symptoms as Depression, these symptoms tend to be less severe though they can fluctuate in intensity. To be diagnosed, an adult must experience 2 or more of the following symptoms for at least two years including: feelings of hopelessness, sleep disturbances, poor concentration, difficulty making decisions, change in appetite, low energy, fatigue, low self-esteem, impaired sex drive, and irritability.