Dysthymia, or mild depression, is a form of depression in which symptoms last more than two years. However, unlike clinical depression, the symptoms of mild depression are not as severe. It is important to get help for depression as soon as soon as you notice symptoms so that the condition does not progress to a stage where it is difficult to manage. Knowing the signs of depression will help you.
Feelings
Feeling sad, shy, anxious, hopeless or helpless are all feelings that a person with mild depression may have. Guilt, irritation and excessive anger are also possible. As a result of these feelings, the depressed person may lash out at family and friends. Conflicts at home are likely to result from these feelings.
Appetite Fluctuation
Eating less than normal is a sign of minor depression, according to the experts at the Mayo Clinic. This may cause noticeable weight loss. However, the person may try to cover this weight loss up by wearing clothes that hide the loss.
Social Changes
A person who suffers from mild depression may begin to isolate herself from loved ones and friends. She may begin to shy away from activities that she once enjoyed. In addition to avoiding activities that were previously enjoyed, she may also begin to avoid all social situations.
Sleep Habits
Insomnia is common in people with dysthymia. However, hypersomnia is also common. A person with insomnia has difficulty sleeping. A person with hypersomnia sleeps too much. Sleeping later than normal is one sign that a person is having trouble sleeping.
Careless Attitude
A person with mild depression may have a careless attitude about life. This may be noticeable if the person is suffering from low self-esteem. Having trouble in school or slacking at work are also ways that these a careless attitude may manifest itself.
References
- Mayo Clinic
- Healthy Place
- Psychology Concepts and Connections; Spencer A. Rathus; 2009
