Info Nuggets

Understanding dysthymia: The chronic depression you should know about

Ravneet Kaur

TNS

Chandigarh, Updated At : 08:24 PM Jul 10, 2025 IST

What is Dysthymia?

Dysthymia, also known as Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD), is a chronic form of depression that lasts for at least two years in adults (or one year in children/adolescents).

Unlike major depressive disorder, symptoms are less severe but long-lasting, often leading to functional impairment and poor quality of life.

Key characteristics

Persistent low mood
Low self-esteem
Fatigue
Poor concentration
Changes in appetite/sleep
Feelings of hopelessness

Causes

1. Biological factors

Imbalances in brain chemicals (neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine)
Genetic predisposition (family history of depression)

2. Psychosocial factors

Chronic stress
Childhood trauma or neglect
Loneliness or social isolation

3. Environmental triggers

Long-term illness
Financial or relationship stress

Diagnosis

Based on clinical evaluation and DSM-5 criteria
Symptoms must persist for ≥ 2 years (adults), with no remission >2 months
Often underdiagnosed due to its “milder” but chronic nature

Treatment/cure

1. Pharmacological

SSRIs/SNRIs (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline)
Atypical antidepressants (e.g., bupropion)

2. Psychotherapy

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)

3. Lifestyle interventions

Regular physical activity
Structured routines
Sleep hygiene
Social engagement

Note: Early diagnosis and adherence to treatment are key to effective management.’

Why in news? (Contextual relevance for UPSC)

Rising mental health burden in India post-COVID-19, especially among youth and professionals, has brought dysthymia and related disorders into public discourse.
National Mental Health Survey (India) and Lancet studies highlight increasing cases of undiagnosed persistent depression.
Recently, government has launched initiatives under Mental Health and Wellness Centres (MHWCs), part of Ayushman Bharat, addressing low-intensity chronic mental illnesses like dysthymia.

UPSC relevance

1. GS Paper II – Governance, Social Justice & Health:

Government schemes related to mental health
Mental healthcare rights under the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017
Role of ASHA workers, telemedicine and school counselling

2. GS Paper IV – Ethics:

Psychological well-being in public service
Role of empathy in tackling mental health stigma

3. Essay/GS Paper I (Society):

Mental health as a social issue
Impact of lifestyle and urbanisation on emotional well-being

Practice questions

Short answer type

What is dysthymia? How does it differ from major depressive disorder?
Mention two government initiatives addressing mental health in India.

Long answer type

Discuss the growing mental health crisis in India. What role can public policy play in addressing persistent depressive disorders like dysthymia?

Analytical essay type

“Mental health is as important as physical health in achieving inclusive development.” Critically examine with reference to persistent depressive disorders.

Info Nuggets

Ravneet Kaur

TNS

Causes

Treatment/cure

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