Chronic depression, lasting at least two years, affects an estimated 3.3 million people in the US alone. It can be caused by genetic predisposition, chemical imbalance, emotional trauma, and intense stress. Symptoms include mood swings, poor self-image, and apathy. Treatment may include medication and psychotherapy.
The persistent presentation of mild depressive symptoms that has lasted for at least two years is known as chronic depression. Similar to other types of depression, the symptoms associated with chronic depression have the potential to seriously affect an individual’s ability to function and negatively affect numerous aspects of their life, including personal relationships and employment. Affecting an estimated 3.3 million people in the United States alone, chronic depression is often treated with medication and psychotherapy.
In the absence of a single known cause for the development of chronic depression, also known as dysthymia, there are several factors that can contribute to its manifestation. Over the years, research has consistently supported the claim that some people may have a genetic predisposition to dysthymia. Other studies have indicated that chemical imbalance may contribute to the development of this type of depression. Situational and environmental factors consistent in one’s life, such as emotional trauma and intense stress, can also trigger dysthymic symptoms.
When dysthymia is suspected, a complete blood count (CBC) is usually ordered to check for markers suggestive of an underlying condition that may be contributing to the individual’s symptoms, such as thyroid dysfunction. An extensive psychological examination is usually performed to take an inventory of the individual’s condition, including their behaviors and symptoms. The information obtained during the psychological evaluation can then be used as a diagnostic tool to determine whether the individual meets the criteria for a diagnosis of chronic depression established by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM).
Chronically depressed individuals often experience a wide range of symptoms. Frequently, individuals will exhibit pronounced mood swings, poor self-image, and apathy. Isolating behaviors, such as purposely avoiding social situations, are another common manifestation of depression. A dysthymic condition can also cause a person to adopt an abnormally critical view of themselves, leading to feelings of guilt, anxiety, and intense anger.
Left undiagnosed and untreated, chronic depression can have a debilitating effect on an individual’s quality of life. Persistent depressed mood may progressively worsen, contributing to the onset of major depression and one’s vulnerability to suicidal behavior. A depressed individual may also have enormous difficulty sustaining gainful employment. Self-medication tendencies are frequently manifested in chronically depressed individuals, which can lead to drug and alcohol abuse and further complicate their situation.
Treatment for chronic depression generally depends on several factors, including the severity of symptoms. In many cases, an antidepressant medication may be prescribed to stabilize the individual’s mood. Psychotherapy is often recommended in conjunction with the administration of psychiatric medications. The treatment approach used depends on the needs of the individual and may involve the use of cognitive or behavioral therapies, or a combination of the two, giving the individual the opportunity to better understand their condition, symptoms and behaviour.
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