Dysthymia (Mild Depression) Treatment
Persistent Depressive Disorder is a chronic, long standing, mild depression (usually lasts more than 2 years). Most sufferers feel that this depression defines who they are (“I have been this way all my life”). They often feel hopeless, sad, tired, indecisive, have low self-esteem, are self-critical, act in a self deprecating way or brood about their past and have a decreased productivity . Sometimes, Dysthymia progresses into Major Depressive Disorder and the sufferer may even present suicidal ideation, plan or attempt. Many sufferers of Dysthymia only seek treatment when they experience a major depressive episode (worsening of their usual chronic state of depression).
The most effective treatment is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Behavioral Activation. Schema Therapy has also been shown to be helpful when the person also presents personality traits that have led to a maladaptive functioning and have significantly interfered with attaining their personal and professional goals.
