Dysthymic disorder or Persistent Depressive Disorder has a prevalence of around 0.5% and is characterised by long–term (at least two years in adults or one in kids) but fewer and less severe symptoms than with Major Depressive Disorder that may not disable a person but can prevent one from functioning normally or feeling well.
People with dysthymia who at some point meet the criteria for major depressive disorder are diagnosed with either major depressive disorder or chronic major depressive disorder depending on the timeframe of the additional symptoms.
Those struggling with Dysthymia have a depressed mood most of the time plus at least two of the following symptoms:
- Low self-esteem
- Feelings of hopelessness
- Fatigue
- Poor appetite or overeating.
- Insomnia or hypersomnia.
- Poor concentration or difficulty making decisions.
