Mild depression, or dysthymia, is a low-grade depression that lasts more than two years. While the symptoms of minor depression last longer than those associated with clinical depression, they are less severe.
Causes
Mild depression may be caused by environmental factors, such as life changing events---financial troubles or the death of a loved one. However, changes to neurotransmitters in the brain and genes may also cause dysthymia.
Symptoms
Feeling a lingering sense of sadness, irritability or hopelessness are all signs of mild depression. Other signs are a loss of interest in activities you usually enjoy or a desire to be left alone.
Risk Factors
Anyone can suffer from depression; however, people with a family history of depression and those with a history of trauma or abuse are more likely to suffer from depression. Other risk factors include lack of support from family and friends, financial or employment strain, and drug or alcohol abuse.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing mild depression usually involves an evaluation---blood testing, psychological exams and a physical exam---by a mental health professional and/or a physician.
Treatment
Treating mild depression may involve counseling or self help techniques, usually in combination with medications. Generally the goal is to treat the cause of the depression.
References
- Healthy Place
- Psychology Concepts & Connections; Spencer A. Rathus; 2009
- Mayo Clinic
