Definition -

Persistent depressive disorder is a continuous, long-term form of depression (usually lasts two or more years). One may feel sad and empty, lose interest in daily activities and have trouble getting things done. One may also have low self-esteem, feel like a failure and feel hopeless. These feelings last for years and may interfere with one’s relationships, school, work and daily activities. 

 

The difference between depression and persistent depressive disorder is that PDD is a type of depression that’s less severe than major depressive disorder, yet ongoing. 3% or more of the U.S. population experiences it at some point in their lives.

 

Causes -

Research shows that PDD has a strong correlation to low levels of serotonin – a natural hormone that controls our emotions and feelings of well-being. PDD also may get triggered by a traumatic event in life, such as losing a job, having a loved one die, experiencing a crime or going through a breakup. 

 

Another research also shows that people with PDD may have physical changes in their brains. It’s not clear how these changes affect the disorder, but they may eventually help determine the causes. However, preventions can be taken by taking steps to control stress, reaching out to a family member, friend, or health care provider for help, getting treatment at the earliest sign of a problem, and or considering getting long-term treatment to help prevent a relapse of symptoms. 

 

Symptoms -

Symptoms of PDD include fatigue, feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness or isolation, lack of appetite or overeating, lack of concentration, and limited energy.

 

Most people with PDD also have a moment of major depression at last once at some point in their life, which is called “double depression”. 

 

Treatments -

The best way to treat PDD is to talk to others, and try to cope by staying active. Doing something kind for others, going out to watch a movie, working out, hanging out with people who one would like, painting or playing an instrument, and building small hobbies could really help to cope.