Understanding Persistent Depressive Disorder: Symptoms and Treatments

PDD or dysthymia, refers to a kind of depression that is present for a long period and might harm a person’s life quality. Even if the symptoms aren’t as severe as major depressive disorder, dysthymia can affect people for years and may be equally debilitating. We know it can be very difficult to manage persistent depressive disorder and our treatments are aimed at helping you recover for the long term.

What is Persistent Depressive Disorder?

Persistent depressive disorder is known by its common feature of an unpleasant or low mood that stays with the person most of the day and for more days than not, throughout at least two years (or one year for young people). Even though PDD often leads to normal-looking actions, those with PDD may feel without joy, sad most of the time or see the world with overwhelming pessimism.

Common symptoms of persistent depressive disorder include:

• Low energy or fatigue

• Poor concentration or difficulty making decisions

• Sleep disturbances (insomnia or oversleeping)

• Low self-esteem

• Changes in appetite

• Hopelessness

• Social withdrawal

Because the symptoms often develop over time, some may not notice them and blame them on their personalities or general life circumstances.

Causes and Risk Factors

Experts think persistent depressive disorder is caused by a mix of biological, psychological and environmental elements. These include:

• Genetic predisposition (family history of depression)

• Brain chemistry imbalances

• Chronic stress or trauma

• Childhood adversity or neglect

• Co-occurring mental health conditions such as anxiety

Getting to the bottom of PDD helps doctors design a treatment plan that fits each person. At Palm Coast Treatment Solutions, our skilled clinicians learn about a client’s background, signs of distress and what they require.

Effective Treatments for Persistent Depressive Disorder

Despite how tough PDD can be, there are treatments that can work. Typically, people with persistent depressive disorder are treated with medicine, talk therapy and help with lifestyle choices. The purpose of care is to ease your symptoms, enhance your daily life and look after your long-term mental and emotional state.

1. Persistent Depressive Disorder Therapy

Talking with a therapist or psychotherapy, forms a key element of treatment. A number of common techniques are used in growing therapeutic herbs, including:

• CBT techniques help people notice and replace the negative thoughts that cause their depression.

• Focusing on IPT, the goal of therapy is to teach better relationship and communication skills.

• Show individuals how to keep their thoughts and emotions in the present moment.

Our therapists develop individualized therapy plans with each patient at Palm Coast Treatment Solutions.

2. Persistent Depressive Disorder Medication

Brain chemistry can be restored and depression can be better controlled in the long run with recommended medications. These are the main things people choose:

• SSRIs are medicines such as fluoxetine and sertraline

• SNRI drugs like venlafaxine

• In a few cases, tricyclic antidepressants may be used.

The medication for persistent depressive disorder should be adjusted based on what the person experiences, their past health problems and their reaction to treatment. We watch over our clients closely to ensure we can adjust their medications for the best possible outcome.

Integrated and Ongoing Support

The ongoing nature of persistent depressive disorder usually means those affected need ongoing care. Treatment methods can also be:

• Nutritional counseling

• Exercise plans

• Supports for better sleep habits

• Joining a group of people to share your experiences

They help people create good habits and feel more organized and settled each day. In Palm Coast Treatment Solutions, we focus on making sure patients receive consistent and stable care as they get through their recovery.

Take the First Step Toward Recovery

You shouldn’t think you are alone if you or a family member is dealing with persistent depressive disorder. There is help out there that is caring and effective. Having persistent depressive disorder is not a barrier to living contentedly and in balance. Call or message Palm Coast Treatment Solutions today at (386) 284-4151.