Why Are Some People Always In A Bad Mood?
A bad mood that never seems to go away may be more than it appears.
The Greek word dysthymia means “bad state of mind” or “ill humor.” But it labels a type of depression that can last for years if not treated.
A person suffering from dysthymia experiences a depressed mood for at least two years and is never without symptoms for more than two months at a time. The depression persists most of the day and for more days than not.
Unlike people with major depression, another mood disorder, a person with dysthymia is frequently able to function socially and occupationally although often with difficulty and without much pleasure.
But they are often viewed as complainers, unusually critical and unable to have fun. They are described as gloomy, pessimistic and living under a dark cloud.
While in this mood, sufferers may have several of these associated symptoms: lack of energy or chronic fatigue, diminished appetite or overeating, difficulties in making decisions and/or concentration, sleep problems including insomnia, poor self-concept, feeling sad, down in the dumps, helpless and /or hopeless, experiencing frequent anger, and avoidance of social functions.
Children and adolescents also can be diagnosed as dysthymic and are often described as irritable and defiant, and lacking social skills.
They often have difficulty in school and a negative outlook, with symptoms lasting for at least a year.
Dysthymia sufferers generally experienced the first symptoms of the disorder during childhood, adolescence, or early adulthood, although late-onset dysthymia can occur.
Women, children
Women are more often diagnosed as dysthymic than men.
Children and adolescents experience the disorder in about equal numbers. Dysthymia occurs in about five percent of the population.
As with other mood disorders, dysthymia is often seen among siblings or in more than one generation of a family. The cause is thought to be a combination of biological, genetic and life events.
The treatment usually includes a combination of an anti-depressant medication and psychotherapy. Therapy techniques are used to help the patients develop healthier self-esteem and more effective coping skills.
Dysthymia is a treatable mood disorder. Successful treatment can create a new sense of hope and optimism for sufferers and improve their relationships.
