While most people have those days when they feel down, persistent feelings of low-grade depression may be a sign of “dysthymia.” This mild form of depression is characterized by a low, sad, or depressed mood most days of the week for at least two years, in addition to at least two of the following symptoms: feelings of hopelessness, low self-esteem, difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much, low energy or fatigue, overeating or no appetite, and difficulty concentrating or making decisions. While these symptoms may seem similar to those associated with full-blown depression, they are less severe and tend to last longer. By comparison, people with major depression experience at least five symptoms every day for two or more weeks.
Depression of any level can affect your whole life. That’s why, if you’re suffering from depression, no matter how mild, you need to call our office. Our compassionate counselors understand depression as well as dysthymia and we can provide proven techniques and a safe space for you to feel like your old self again. In addition, we can also help you deal with stress and anxiety.
P.S. Among adults, dysthymia tends to be triggered by stressful life events such as divorce, death of a spouse or loved one, or financial difficulties.

Mary Ellen Withers, LISW
While most people have those days when they feel down, persistent feelings of low-grade depression may be a sign of “dysthymia.” This mild form of depression is characterized by a low, sad, or depressed mood most days of the week for at least two years, in addition to at least two of the following symptoms: feelings of hopelessness, low self-esteem, difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much, low energy or fatigue, overeating or no appetite, and difficulty concentrating or making decisions. While these symptoms may seem similar to those associated with full-blown depression, they are less severe and tend to last longer. By comparison, people with major depression experience at least five symptoms every day for two or more weeks.
Depression of any level can affect your whole life. That’s why, if you’re suffering from depression, no matter how mild, you need to call our office. Our compassionate counselors understand depression as well as dysthymia and we can provide proven techniques and a safe space for you to feel like your old self again. In addition, we can also help you deal with stress and anxiety.
P.S. Among adults, dysthymia tends to be triggered by stressful life events such as divorce, death of a spouse or loved one, or financial difficulties.
This entry was posted
on Thursday, May 24th, 2012 at 9:39 am and is filed under News and Updates.
You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed.
Both comments and pings are currently closed.