9106 N. Meridian Street
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Indianapolis, IN 46260
Tel: (317) 575-9111
Fax: (317) 571-4470
www.childrensresourcegroup.com
Dysthymic Disorder
-Children’s Resource Group
Dysthymic disorder consists of a chronic feeling of unhappiness and irritability that can affect the quality of life of children, as well as the lives of their family members who suffer from this disorder. Dysthymic disorder is often overlooked or misdiagnosed, and because of this, many times will go untreated or under-treated. Learning the risk factors and the symptoms of DD can help to prevent and treat children who are afflicted.
Diagnosis
Dysthymic disorder consists of a persistent state of low mood that is generally milder, but more chronic, than major depressive disorder (MDD). In order to receive a diagnosis of DD a child’s mood must be depressed or irritable on most days or most of the day for a period of one full year. Any symptom free interval can last no longer than a two month time span. In addition to feelings of depression, at least two of the following additional symptoms are apparent in the afflicted child: poor appetite or overeating, insomnia or hypersomnia, low energy or fatigue, low self-esteem, poor concentration or difficulty making decisions, and a feeling of hopelessness.
Comorbidity
A child afflicted with dysthymic disorder will generally experience another disorder simultaneously including ADHD, anxiety disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), social phobias and panic disorder. Due to feelings of chronic unhappiness, the young person may be more at risk for substance abuse of alcohol or other illegal drugs in an attempt to self medicate.
Treatment
There are treatment strategies that are successful when working with children afflicted with dysthymic disorder. An evaluation of the patient is required before beginning a treatment plan and normally consists of a series of interviews that are either conducted separately or collectively with family members. Information from other resources such as teachers, primary-care physicians and social services professionals are also helpful and usually necessary to gather information about the child. Once the evaluation has been completed, a treatment plan can be established that caters to the individual child.
Psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy have both been found to be effective treatment strategies for children with dysthymic disorder. Psychotherapy typically is the first treatment option; however antidepressants are a consideration for patients suffering from a comorbid disorder, for example bipolar disorder or major depression. Antidepressants are also a consideration for patients who have not responded effectively to psychotherapy alone.
Outcome
Early detection and treatment of dysthymic disorder are both helpful to an afflicted child. Recognition can help a child learn to discover healthy options to coping with DD and pre-emptive action may avert the development of other psychiatric disorders. Contact CRG or another mental health professional if you have concerns that your child or loved one might suffer from Dysthymic Disorder.