Childhood Mental Health: Dysthymic Disorder (Dysthymia)
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This less severe yet typically more chronic form of depression
is diagnosed when depressed mood persists for at least 1 year in children
or adolescents and is accompanied by at least 2 other symptoms of .
Dysthymia is associated with an increased risk for developing
major depressive disorder, ,
and substance abuse.
Treatment of dysthmia may prevent the deterioration to more
severe illness. If dysthymia is suspected in a young patient, referral
to a mental health specialist is indicated for a comprehensive diagnostic
evaluation and appropriate treatment.
The information in this page is presented in summarised form and has been taken
from the following source(s):
1.
National Institute of Mental Health: http://www.nimh.nih.gov
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Introduction
