Do not be misled by the difficult term dysthymia; it is simply another name for depression. Chronic depression is what this mental and behavioral condition entails.

It's possible for persistent depressive disorder(PDD) victims to feel hopeless, unhappy, devastated, or even depressed. They quickly lose interest in activities, and this affects how well they do overall. PDD frequently ruins social gatherings, job relationships, and interpersonal connections.

Patients with PDD struggle to feel cheerful and find it very challenging to become enthused by anything; they lose themselves in melancholy and are unable to take part in any activities or happy settings.

They naturally grumble frequently, are perpetually pessimistic, and are continually miserable. Although the patient is only mildly unhappy and not excessively so, the illness is similar to major depression even if it is less severe. Because major depression is so severe, it needs to be properly treated.

It can be particularly challenging to manage depression symptoms because of the persistent nature of the persistent depressive disorder.

Identifying the PDD

The following symptoms can be used to determine if someone has chronic depression.

  • Loss of interest in routine tasks
  • Very dejected, hollow, and shallow
  • Quick to get angry
  • Hypersomnia (sleep problem)
  • An eating disorder
  • Lack of productivity

It is crucial to remember that PDD symptoms might last for months, although PDD episodes come and go over the years and can change over time depending on their intensity. Additionally, it causes depression and irritability in kids.

Consult a physician

You only need to ask for assistance, so don't be scared. With your effort and indulgence in the appropriate activities, the illness can be addressed and is not a lifelong disorder.

It's impossible to resist feeling angry, frustrated, or uneasy because these feelings are universal and quite natural. Understanding this will help you increase your chances of healing.

Additionally, discuss your symptoms with a primary care physician. You can also get in touch with knowledgeable, seasoned mental health professionals. Reach out to a trusted friend, loved one, or even your instructor or lecturer, a religious leader, or someone trustworthy if access to the aforementioned methods is not possible.

Please call Westend Hospital (+234807 420 2395), if you don't have anyone you can turn to, if you're worried you might hurt yourself, or if your life is in danger.

Reasons for PDD

The cause of PDD is yet unknown to science. However, research indicates that given the significant role depression plays in it, it is safe to assume that the following factors may contribute to its occurrence:

  • Genetic factors: People with blood relatives who also have persistent depression appear to have the condition more frequently.
  • Life experience: Trauma, which includes the loss of a loved one, financial hardship, impoverishment, and even a high level of stress, is strongly associated with major depression.

The following challenges must be overcome by people with PDD:

  • A worse quality of life
  • Severe depression
  • Anxiety problems
  • Disorders of the personality
Preventive Measures
  • Avoid being alone by surrounding yourself with loved ones, and by having a support system; it is simpler to seek assistance when needed.
  • Get long-term maintenance treatment during the rehabilitation process to help prevent a symptom return.
  • Don't panic, and approach these processes gently yet urgently.