Dysthymic DisorderDysthymic Disorder is a relatively unheard of disorder, but is more common than people realize. This is a chronic condition that affects many individuals and can go undiagnosed for years. This disorder is a form of depression, but is not as severe and disturbing as Major Depressive Disorder. Defining Dysthymic DisorderAgain, this is a mood disorder that is a form of depression. The depressive state mimics Major Depressive Disorder, but with less harmful symptoms. Basically, this disorder is a daily depressive state. This depressive state lasts up to two years. In many cases, the symptoms are not noticed by the individual who suffers from the disorder, however the people around are very aware of the mood swings. The symptoms of the disorder are as follows: low energy, sleep disturbances, change in appetite and many seem to have very low self esteem
The very first step in identifying this disorder is to visit a doctor to establish the fact that you do indeed have the disorder. Upon diagnosing you with this type of disorder, the doctor may do a physical that may help to develop a reason for this disorder, such as an illness. If a person suffers from some type of ongoing disability, this disorder may become a part of their life due to the severity of their illness. Treating Dysthymic DisorderMost doctors refer patients to psychotherapy in order to treat the disorder. Doctors believe if you talk about the situation and what may being causing it, you may be able to conquer the disorder, however in many instances antidepressants that have side effects may be prescribed due to the nature of the disorder and the fact that this is a chronic disorder.The human brain is one of the largest "consumers" of DHA. A normal adult human brain contains more than 20 grams of DHA. Low DHA levels have been linked to low brain serotonin levels which are connected to an increased tendency to bipolar disorder, depression, suicide, and violence.
Several studies have established an association between low levels of omega-3 fatty acids; specifically (DHA) and depression. Other studies have shown that countries with a high level of fish consumption have fewer cases of depression.
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