Persistent Depressive Disorder is a mild and moderate form of depression that does not heal and stays for a longer time. The symptoms of PDD are similar to Depression, and most of the time, a person feels low, sad and in a dark mood. The conditions prevail most of the time in a day and stay for a longer period. 

It is also considered a chronic form of depression, and it combines Dysthymia and major depression disorder. The condition has a deep impact on the daily life of a person as it stays for a longer period and affects their work and personal life. 

What is the difference between Depression and Persistent Depressive Disorder?

Depression and Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD), formerly known as Dysthymia, are both mental health conditions characterised by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in daily activities. However, they differ in terms of duration, severity, and specific diagnostic criteria.

Depression (Major Depressive Disorder)

Duration

 Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) typically involves episodes of intense depression that last for at least two weeks. These episodes may recur over a person’s lifetime.

Severity

 MDD episodes are often more severe, with symptoms that can significantly impact a person’s ability to function in various areas of life.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is based on the presence of specific criteria, including the duration and intensity of symptoms. These criteria include experiencing at least five symptoms from a list that includes depressed mood, loss of interest or pleasure, changes in sleep and appetite, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of death or suicide.

Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD)

Duration

 PDD involves a chronic and persistent low mood that lasts for at least two years in adults (or one year in children and adolescents).

Severity

 While the symptoms of PDD are generally less severe than those of MDD, they can still have a significant impact on daily functioning.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of PDD is made when a person experiences a depressed mood for most of the day, for more days than not, over the specified duration. Additionally, individuals with PDD may have two or more of the following symptoms: changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, low energy, poor self-esteem, difficulty concentrating, and feelings of hopelessness.

In a nutshell, while both Depression (MDD) and Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD) involve prolonged periods of low mood, MDD is characterised by episodic and more severe symptoms, whereas PDD is a chronic and less intense form of depression that persists for an extended period.

It’s important to note that seeking professional help is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment for either condition.

Duration 

The disorder can begin in childhood and can last long. It mostly lasts for two years in Adults and for one year in teens and children. However, with the help of treatment, the duration can be reduced.  

How common is PDD?

There is no age limit for PDD, and it can affect anyone. Anyone can suffer from PDD at any point in their life. PDD is more common in women and people who have cases of depression in their families. 

Symptoms 

The symptoms of the disorder are similar to Depression. Long duration is the main symptom of the disorder. The main symptoms of PDD are:

1. The mood is low in major Depression, whereas in PDD, there is a feeling of less pleasure and low energy. A person feels less motivated and disengaged from daily activities. 
2. PDD affects the appetite, and it can increase and decrease.    
3. PDD can affect the sleep pattern of people, and they might sleep too much or be unable to sleep at all. 
4. PDD affects self-confidence, and people become indecisive and pessimistic in their day-to-day actions. They feel low about themselves, tend to feel less active, and have low self-worth. 
5. Unlike major Depression, people suffering from PDD are depressed for a longer period.
6. As Depression starts from an early age, these people become accustomed to their feelings and tend to think of them as a part of their personality. Hence, they don’t feel a need to tell anyone about their feelings as they think it is a part of their nature. 
7. The condition runs in the family, and it is more common in women than in men. However, it is important to consider that men are less likely to share their feelings; therefore, most of the time, they are underdiagnosed. 

Causes of Dysthymia 

PDD is common in the UK as research suggests that 4.5% of the UK’s population is struggling with the condition, and there is no direct cause of the disease. There are many causes of Depression which contribute to the development of PDD. Some factors that are considered to be contributing to the disease are 

• Severe illness that affects the quality of life
• Victim of Abuse and Neglect in Childhood
• Stress or Trauma 

Risk Factors for Dysthymia

People may develop a condition like PDD at any stage of life, depending upon their biological and environmental circumstances. The most common risk factors include:

• Your family’s medical history of Depression and your mental health condition 
• Personality Traits such as perfectionism and Self-critical people are more likely to develop the disorder. 
• Age: Older adults are more likely to develop depression as they are dependent and have lots of time to think. 
• Gender: It is more common in women than men. 

Diagnosis and Tests

The primary diagnosis is from the GPs when they notice signs and symptoms of any form of Depression in their patient, and then these patients are referred to mental health professionals for a complete evaluation. 

PDD is diagnosed when an adult is suffering from a low mood and other symptoms of depression from one to two years. In Children, the disorder can be diagnosed after one year. People also hesitate to state their condition to doctors or other people around them as they feel ashamed to be called Depressed. Hence, they are reluctant to discuss the matter openly.

The symptoms of the disorder are similar to many other disorders, such as 

• Major Depression 
• Bipolar Disorder 
• Cyclothymic Disorder 

Therefore, it is important to clearly and openly state all the facts related to the disorder, as it would help in the right diagnosis. 

Laboratory Tests 

There are no specific laboratory tests that could be used to diagnose PDD. However, doctors may recommend a few tests to investigate medical conditions that can cause depression, such as anaemia. 

Dysthymia Treatment

There are many effective treatments available for PDD, and they have been applied with positive results. People don’t have to suffer in silence anymore, and they can live a happy life. When they seek help, it leads them to a track that can change their life and get them back to normal. 

Therapy 

Types of CBT in LONDONPersistent Depressive Disorder is a form of depression that responds well to the therapeutic models that are used to treat depression, such as CBT ( Cognitive Behavior Therapy) and DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy). 

What to keep in mind during therapy

Whatever Therapy is chosen for you needs a process to be followed. You will be attending sessions in order to follow a complete protocol of Therapy as it helps to attain maximum benefit and helps to recover fast. 

Benefits of Therapy Treatment 

Therapy helps to treat depression effectively and has several other benefits, such as 

• Helps to strengthen emotions 
• Helps in adjustment during difficult phases of life 
• Helps to face challenges 
• Enhance the coping strategies
• Helps to identify harmful behaviour
• Helps to think positively and to develop a positive mindset

How many therapy Sessions?

Therapy sessions are delivered differently and depend upon the case. In some cases, these sessions are delivered on a one-to-one basis and as group therapy. 

Prevention of PDD

Preventive measures play a crucial role in addressing Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD) and promoting mental well-being.

Early Intervention Programs

Early intervention programs involve identifying and addressing signs of emotional distress or depressive symptoms in individuals at an early stage. Detecting and addressing symptoms promptly can prevent the escalation of depressive disorders like PDD. 

Implement community-based programs, school initiatives, and workplace mental health programs that focus on early identification and intervention.

Mental Health Education

Mental health education aims to increase awareness and understanding of mental health issues, including depressive disorders, among the general population. Educating individuals about the signs, symptoms, and available resources for mental health can contribute to stigmatisation and early recognition of PDD.

 Integrate mental health education into school curricula, workplace training, and community health programs to promote a more informed and supportive society.

Awareness Campaigns

 Awareness campaigns involve disseminating information to the public about mental health, including the prevalence, symptoms, and available support for PDD. By raising awareness, these campaigns contribute to reducing stigma, encouraging help-seeking behaviour, and fostering a more supportive environment. 

 Utilise various media channels, social platforms, and community events to conduct targeted awareness campaigns that reach diverse audiences.

Role of a Supportive Environment

A supportive environment refers to social, familial, and workplace contexts that foster understanding, empathy, and assistance for individuals dealing with mental health challenges. A supportive environment can act as a protective factor, reducing the impact of stressors and decreasing the risk of developing PDD.

 Encourage open communication about mental health within families, workplaces, and communities. Promote supportive policies and practices that prioritise employee well-being and community mental health.

Community Resources and Access to Care

Ensure the availability and accessibility of mental health resources and services within communities. Having accessible mental health resources reduces barriers to seeking help and encourages individuals to address mental health concerns before they become chronic. 

 Establish and promote community mental health centres, helplines, and online resources to provide information and support. Advocate for policies that improve mental health service accessibility.

Stress Management Programs

Stress management programs teach individuals effective coping strategies and resilience skills to deal with life stressors. Equipping individuals with stress management skills can reduce the impact of chronic stress, a potential precursor to PDD.  

Incorporate stress management programs into workplaces, educational institutions, and community settings. Provide resources for individuals to learn and practise stress-reducing techniques.

Contact Us for Help

If you think you and your loved one are suffering from Depression and are in need of help, you can call us at Seekapsych, and we will help you find the Best therapist for Depression in London. 

FAQ’s 

Does PDD ever go away?

Many people recover after the treatment, but the condition might continue for a longer period. PDD also increases the chances of Suicide. 

How to live with PDD?

There are many activities, such as bike riding, writing, and reading, that can be helpful in boosting happiness and coping with stress and depressive thoughts. Mindful activities such as meditation and Yoga are the mindful activities that help to cure PDD. 

Can Dysthymia ever be cured?

There is no cure for depression-related disorders, but people with Dysthymia can live happily. The symptoms do ebb and flow with time, but proper support and professional help can improve the quality of life. 

What are the preventive measures against mental disorders?

There are some common measures which can be taken in order to prevent mental illness and promote mental health and well-being, such as 

• Providing Mental Health Education
• Mental Health Screening
• Ways how to reduce the risks of mental illness

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