Dysthymic disorder

Dysthymic disorder

Dysthymic disorder, or dysthymia, is a mood disorder that causes some symptoms of depression. Dysthymia is diagnosed when the depressed mood has lasted for at least 1 year in children and 2 years in adults.

Symptoms of dysthymia may include depressed mood, low energy, or sleeping too much or not enough. The symptoms last longer than major depression and may make it hard to do daily activities.

Treatment for dysthymia may include medicine or counselling. Often a combination of the two works best.