As I move forward with this blog, I believe it is important for everyone to understand my diagnosis on the depression spectrum. I have been diagnosed with Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD). Through therapy, I have learned this is something I have dealt with my entire life. Originally, PDD was known as Dysthymia.
What is PDD?
Persistent depressive disorder is a continuous, long-term form of depression. You may feel sad and empty, lose interest in daily activities and have trouble getting things done. You may also have low self-esteem, feel like a failure and feel hopeless. These feelings last for years and may interfere with your relationships, school, work and daily activities.
If you have persistent depressive disorder, you may find it hard to be upbeat even on happy occasions. You may be described as having a gloomy personality, constantly complaining or not able to have fun. Persistent depressive disorder is not as severe as major depression, but your current depressed mood may be mild, moderate or severe.
Because persistent depressive disorder is long term, coping with depression symptoms can be challenging. A combination of talk therapy and medicine can be effective in treating this condition.
Symptoms
Persistent depressive disorder symptoms usually come and go over a period of years. The intensity of symptoms can change over time. But symptoms usually don't disappear for more than two months at a time. Also, major depression episodes may occur before or during persistent depressive disorder.
Symptoms of persistent depressive disorder can cause major problems in your life and may include:
- Sadness, emptiness or feeling down.
- Loss of interest in daily activities.
- Tiredness and lack of energy.
- Low self-esteem, self-criticism or feeling you're not capable.
- Trouble focusing clearly and trouble making decisions.
- Problems getting things done well and on time.
- Quickly becoming annoyed, impatient or angry.
- Avoidance of social activities.
- Feelings of guilt and worries over the past.
- Poor appetite or overeating.
- Sleep problems.
- Hopelessness.
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