WHAT YOU SHOULD
KNOW
Dysthymic (dis-THI-mik) disorder (also called dysthymia)
is a long-standing feeling of depression accompanied by other
symptoms such as sleep problems, poor appetite, or even
thoughts of suicide. The symptoms of dysthymia are never as
severe as those of major depression. To be considered a
problem, the condition must last at least 2 years and include
three other symptoms besides a low, irritable mood.
Dysthmia is easily controlled with any of a variety of
antidepressant medications. A deeper, more serious depression
may call for other treatments (see "Major
Depression").
Causes
Dysthymia can be triggered by a stressful change in your
life, changes in brain chemistry, or a variety of medications
for other conditions. The odds of developing the disorder are
higher for:
-
Those with mood disorders in
the family
-
Women
-
People who've had a major
depression in the past
-
Abusers of drugs or
alcohol
Signs/Symptoms
Dysthymia usually begins during childhood, the teenage
years, or young adulthood. It is typified by feelings of
hopelessness and a decline in self-esteem. It's often
accompanied by changes in your:
-
Eating or sleeping
habits
-
Weight
-
Energy level
-
Level of
concentration
-
Ability to make
decisions
WHAT YOU SHOULD
DO
-
If the doctor prescribes an
antidepressant medicine, be sure to take it regularly, even
if it seems to have no effect at the start. Since some of
these medications can make you drowsy, be cautious when
using machinery or driving until you know how the drug
affects you. Check with your doctor before taking any other
drugs, either prescription or
over-the-counter.
-
Avoid alcohol and
recreational drugs while taking an antidepressant. They may
interact with it badly.
-
Since it's hard to avoid
stress, learn to control it with such techniques as deep
breathing, relaxing muscles, meditation, or biofeedback.
Try not to bottle-up your feelings; talk to your doctors,
family, or friends and let them help you. You may also want
to join a support group.
-
Encourage those close to you
to talk to your doctor. He can give them tips on how to
respond to the situation.
Call Your Doctor
If...
-
You're unable to sleep well
or find that you are sleeping more than
usual.
-
You undergo a change in
appetite.
-
Your medicine is
causing:
-
-
Drowsiness
-
Insomnia
-
Changes in your eating
habits
-
Dizziness
-
Nausea
-
A rash
-
Swelling
Seek Care Immediately
If...
-
You begin to have thoughts of
suicide or homicide.
-
Your medicine causes an
allergic reaction (swelling or trouble
breathing).
Return to top
|
Email this page
Printer friendly
Bookmark this page
