Introduction
We have all experienced sadness or grief from a stressful event. Relationships can end, loved ones can pass away or you could lose something of great value. Most of us will feel ‘depressed’ for a few weeks before we recover. But what makes grief or sadness from this different from depression? Besides temporary sadness, depression can be much more debilitating for people in the long run. The key difference between depression and grief is that a person’s worth completely disappears. You will find that; they no longer find hobbies or interests enjoyable.
Many of us are aware of it, but did you know there are multiple types of depression? Arguably, the most known form is Major Depression. This would be where you feel low, have difficulty sleeping, low mood and at worst suicidal thoughts. Perhaps you haven’t felt or met anyone with depression but, it is very common. Globally it has been experienced by up to 5% of adults This is horrible for the sufferer, but it can be much easier for family and friends to address because the signs are easier to identify compared to other forms of the condition. An example of this would be Persistent Depression. This condition can be a lot more difficult to assess in people you know.
What is Persistent Depression? (Dysthymia)
Persistent Depression, which is also known as Dysthymia, is different from major depression. The meaning of Dysthymia stems from a Greek word, which means ill mind/ill emotions. You will find it’s not as severe but can last much longer. It is a chronic form of depression with symptoms lasting 2 years minimum, every day (1 year for children and teenagers). People suffering with Dysthymia will have a low mood and be feeling ‘down.’ Researchers looking into depression found up to 4.5% of the UK were suffering with it and in the USA, it is as common as major depression. People suffering with Dysthymia can also experience major depression at the same time.
Symptoms
Because Dysthymia is very similar to major depression, the symptoms will be almost identical. The key thing to remember is that this condition, is less severe but chronic. This means the signs may appear less drastic but would last over an extended period. The symptoms of Dysthymia include:
- Sadness
- Despair
- Low self-esteem
- Trouble sleeping or staying asleep
- Low mood
- Inability to focus
- Lack of enjoyment in hobbies and interests
- Isolation
- Fatigue
- Lack of energy
- Changes in appetite
Causes
The reasons for why someone may experience Dysthymia can vary between people. Some are more likely to get it then others. It can also affect women twice as much as men.
Genetics. Depression is more common among people who have relatives with the same condition, this means if you have any family suffering with depression your more susceptible to it as well. A study found that if an identical twin is depressed there is a 76% chance the other twin will have it. This even had a 67% chance for identical twins raised in different homes, meaning it is a genetic factor.
Experiences. Some are more unfortunate than others and may go through a traumatic event. Because trauma is so stressful on the body and brain it can eventually lead up to depression. Moreover, people who have dealt with abuse or neglect during childhood are also more likely to get it.
Biology. Each person has a different brain chemistry. Some of us have less neurotransmitters (chemical messengers) than others, which makes them more likely to suffer with depression. An example of this would be dopamine. This neurotransmitter helps you feel good, yet researchers have found that a lack of it can increase the likelihood of depression.
Prevention
Depression isn’t unavoidable but here’s a few recommendations that can lower the risk of getting it.
Exercise. Working out can be perfect for those dealing with depression. It can be very difficult to begin but it’s important to find something you enjoy doing. This could range from going to the gym to participating in sports. The value exercise has is that it can improve sleep quality, energy, brain function and lowering blood pressure.
Healthy eating. Making healthier meals can help you feel better. Healthy foods aren’t always considered the nicest, but the benefits can help substantially. Dieting can help address energy levels and mood by ensuring your bodies receiving the correct nutrients.
A study looking at how nutrition can help reduce depression found it plays a huge role. Foods’s rich in Omega-3 fatty and amino acids helped alleviate depression. Furthermore, minerals and vitamins had improved the effect of the omega 3 fatty and amino acids. Even herbs such as thyme and oregano provided a benefit for lowering depression.
Avoid drugs. Taking any kind of illegal drugs can have some serious repercussions on the brain, many studies have found that cannabis, cocaine, and ecstasy can cause anxiety or paranoia. For some, the drugs can cause more severe problems such as depression or schizophrenia.
Treatment
If you or anyone you know is experiencing these symptoms, please consider searching for any form of support if possible. Here’s a few ways Dysthymia is addressed.
Therapy. Psychotherapy can help you address many problems, even if you’re not depressed. Many people visit therapists for a range of different reasons because of this, there is many types of therapy.
- Cognitive Behavioural therapy (CBT) helps you change negative thought patterns. You would be looking at how your habits and behaviour affect your thoughts. This can be helpful for those who want to change them
- Interpersonal therapy focuses on issues you may have in your relationships and how to communicate better and deal with stress.
- Psychodynamic psychotherapy. This form of therapy tries to address your subconscious thoughts and how they can affect your behaviour or thoughts.
- Counselling. During counselling you will talk about general issues you are going through. They will focus more on letting you vent out your issues then try to help you resolve the problem.
Medication. Your therapist/councillor may advice you to take some medication such as antidepressants to help with dysthymia. Medications may have to be taken for months before you can feel any difference.
