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Dysthymic Disorder is a term for a chronically depressed mood, sadness, or feelings of being "down in the dumps" that occurs for most of the day for at least two years. It is very much like major depression, but symptoms of weight changes and psychomotor symptoms tend to be less severe than with Major Depression.

The individual with Dysthymic Disorder may experience any of the following symptoms:

• Low self-esteem
• Eating or sleeping problems
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Have feelings of hopelessness
• Lethargy
• Fatigue
• Feelings of inadequacy
• Irritability

Approximately 75% of individuals with Dysthymic Disorder will go on to develop Major Depression.

In children, Dysthymic Disorder tends to occur equally between boys and girls. Children tend to be cranky and irritable and have difficulty socializing and succeeding in school. They tend to have a pessimistic view of life and are unhappy with themselves and others.

Dysthymic Disorder is common among first level biological relatives with Major Depression, with approximately 6% of the population developing Dysthymic Disorder at sometime during their life.

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