Dysthymic Disorder is a mood disorder over a two year period,characterized by more days then not of feeling down or sad.These feeling or less intense then major depression but still disrupts ever-day life.
Dysthymic Disorder.
1. At least two years of symptoms, including more days then not of depressed mood.
2. While depressed at least two of the following:
A. Feelings of hopelessness.
B. Impairment in cognitive functioning.( E.g.,Hard time concentrating, Hard time in making decisions )
C. Loss of appetite or overeating.
D. Low levels of energy or fatigue.
E. Low self-esteem.
F. Problems with sleep.( E.g.,Insomnia,Hypersomnia )
3. At no time in the two years of symptoms,has there been a symptom free period that lasted two or more months, of 1 and 2 above.
4.At no time in the two years of symptoms,has there been a Major Depressive, Manic or Mixed Episode.
5. The symptoms are not from another disorder or a substance.
6. Clinically significant distress from symptoms,or impairment in work, social,or other areas of important functioning.
NOTE: One year in children and adolescents NOT TWO.
Specify:
Atypical Features.