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Symptoms
By Mayo Clinic staffSigns and symptoms of dysthymia include:
- Loss of interest in daily activities
- Feeling sad or down
- Poor appetite
- Overeating
- Hopelessness
- Sleep problems
- Lack of energy
- Fatigue
- Low self-esteem
- Trouble concentrating
- Trouble making decisions
- Self-criticism
- Irritability
- Excessive anger
- Decreased productivity
- Avoiding social activities
- Feelings of guilt
Dysthymia symptoms typically come and go over a period of years, and their intensity can change over time, too. But in general, you may find it hard to be upbeat even on happy occasions — you may be characterized as having a gloomy personality.
When to see a doctor
It's perfectly normal to feel sad or upset sometimes, or to be unhappy with stressful situations in your life. But with dysthymia, these feelings last for years and interfere with your relationships, work and daily activities.
If you have any symptoms of dysthymia, seek medical help as soon as possible. Dysthymia usually doesn't get better on its own, and it may even get worse if left untreated. In fact, if not effectively treated, dysthymia commonly progresses into depression (major depression). When you have both dysthymia and depression, it's known as double depression.
If you have a primary care doctor, talk to him or her about your symptoms. Or seek help directly from a mental health provider. If you're reluctant to see a mental health professional, reach out to someone else who may be able to help guide you to treatment, whether it's a friend or loved one, a teacher, a faith leader or someone else you trust.
