Dysthymia is a low-grade, ongoing depression affecting 3-5% of the US population. It is caused by a mix of hormones, serotonin levels, weakened immune systems, lower brain wave functions, and sleep pattern abnormalities. Antidepressants and psychotherapy are necessary for treatment. Fresh air, sunlight, and a proper diet can also help.
Dysthymia is a condition in which a person suffers from low-grade, ongoing depression. Between three and five percent of the US population suffers from the disorder. Typically, a person diagnosed with dysthymia has experienced feelings of depression for at least two years. Sometimes, depression has been prevalent for twenty or thirty years before a person sees a doctor. Symptoms of dysthymia include binge eating, insomnia, withdrawal, fatigue, low self-esteem, and extreme pessimism.
Intense research was conducted in the 1980s to determine whether dysthymia was a mental or physical condition. After much debate, it was determined that it is because a mix of hormones, serotonin levels, weakened immune systems, lower brain wave functions, and sleep pattern abnormalities contribute to the condition. For this reason, most doctors believe that psychotherapy and medications are both necessary for accurate treatment of the disorder.
When you have dysthymia, a person’s fear-response system kicks in for no apparent reason. This causes cortisol to be pumped through the veins and adrenaline to rush out of the glands and spread throughout the body. As a result, the mind becomes alert and prepared for attack despite the lack of threat. Studies show that these conditions can make a body more prone to diabetes, heart disease and osteoporosis. Dysthymia also makes a person more willing to smoke and drink heavily.
Once a person has been diagnosed with dysthymia, antidepressants are typically prescribed. Statistics show that 62% of patients prescribed antidepressants feel “normal” again within a short period of time, usually within two months. In addition to medical treatment, a person with dysthymia should see a psychiatrist who specializes in the condition on a regular basis.
To help overcome dysthymia, many patients find it helpful to have plenty of fresh air and sunlight. A twenty minute walk every day can be very beneficial. A proper diet is another helpful action plan for those coping with dysthymia. Diets high in foods like chocolate, hearty breads, and potatoes can help with feelings of depression because they aid in the natural production of serotonin.
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