Chronic depression is a type of depressive disorder that lasts for at least two years. Chronic depression is also called dysthymic disorder or dysthmia. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, the depressive symptoms in dysthmia are less severe than those found in major depression. Even though chronic depression is a mild to moderate depression, you may not be able to function at home, school or work. It is important to talk to your doctor if you think you are depressed.
Feelings of Hopelessness
Feeling hopeless is a common emotional symptom found in depression. If you have depression, you may feel as though you have no possible solutions. Chemical imbalances in the brain are thought to play a role in the affective symptoms seen in depression. Specifically, serotonin transmits nerve signals within the brain and is responsible for regulating your mood; a depressed person's serotonin levels are below normal. There are helpful screening tools and questionnaires that medical professionals use to screen for signs of hopelessness and accurately diagnosis depression. The Mental Status Examination and Patient Health Questionnaire are options available during examination. Appropriate screening of symptoms is important because depression must not be confused with sadness, which is experienced with normal life stressors.
Suicidal
Suicide is one of the most serious complications of depressive disorders, and suicidal thoughts are frequently associated with chronic depression. In "Psychiatric Secrets," James Jacobson, MD, reports that 80% of suicidal events are associated with depressive disorders. Most depressed people do not die by suicide, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Depressed individuals have significant problems thinking properly, which can lead to being overwhelmed with ongoing thoughts of ending life. All threats of suicide should be taken very seriously and evaluated promptly.
Sleep Disturbances
The overwhelming feelings of sadness and worthlessness associated with chronic depression can interrupt sleep patterns. There is a link between depression, medical illnesses and sleep patterns. Depression on top of medical illnesses can disrupt normal sleep patterns, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Some sleep disturbances commonly seen with depression are early morning wakening, long periods of sleep in excess of 12 hours per day and too little sleep.
Inability to Concentrate
Depressed people have difficulty concentrating and making good decisions. According to the World Health Organization, the clinical interview is the most effective method for detecting depression. During any interview, medical personnel will ask you to discuss your ability to concentrate, make appropriate decisions and complete tasks. Reduced serotonin levels associated with depression play a role in lack of concentration. Your medical provider can determine if the lack of concentration is related to depression or an underlying medical condition such as hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.
