Dysthymia: A Fashionista’s Guide to Persistent Depressive Disorder
Dysthymia Unveiled Exploring the Symptoms and Impact of Persistent Depressive Disorder
Dysthymia, also known as persistent depressive disorder—this is what it looks like.
September 26, 2023
We all have a tendency to downplay our own suffering. We think unless we’re in the midst of a full-blown crisis or experiencing a tragedy, our pain doesn’t deserve attention. It’s almost as if we’re telling ourselves, “I’m not that depressed compared to someone who can’t get out of bed.” But here’s the thing – pain is pain, and mental health challenges are mental health challenges. Your suffering is valid, even if you seem to have a good life on the surface. After all, every bit of the good life you’ve achieved, you’ve worked hard for. So let’s stop devaluing the impact of dysthymia on our lives.
What is dysthymia?
Dysthymia, also known as Persistent Depressive Disorder, is a condition that is less severe than depression but more persistent. It’s like having a low-grade depression that lingers for at least two years. Different types of dysthymia exist, such as anxious dysthymia, where restlessness and low self-esteem prevail, or anergic dysthymia, where pleasure is elusive, and sluggishness takes over.
To be depressed isn’t just about feeling sad. It’s about feeling numb, as if you’ve lost touch with your emotions. It’s how you’ve been carrying that numbness for so long that it has become a part of your identity. But here’s a secret: you don’t have to be defined by your depression. You have the power to break free from its clutches and live a fulfilling life.
The Mysteries of Dysthymia Unveiled
Dysthymia is often misunderstood, especially for those who appear to have it all together. Productive perfectionists, or the infamous “Type A” personalities, are more prone to dysthymia than you might think. They excel in their careers, jet off to exotic locations, and seem to have it all. But beneath their perfectly curated lives lies a hidden struggle. They fight tooth and nail to maintain their façade, often feeling exhausted and trapped in a complex web of obligations and expectations.
Sometimes, dysthymia stems from the relentless pursuit of success. The fear of not being able to sustain their achievements and the constant pressure to meet increasingly higher standards can contribute to the numbness they feel. Other times, it’s the realization that they have been chasing the wrong things, leading to a profound sense of grief and the need to start over.
But here’s the thing: you don’t have to let dysthymia define you. It’s time to shake off that cloak of numbness and reclaim your life.
Don’t Worry, Be Happy: Tips for Tackling Dysthymia with Style
1. Meet the belief that you shouldn’t feel depressed with kindness
It’s time to debunk the myth that you don’t have the right to be depressed. We all experience suffering in different ways, and your pain is valid, no matter your circumstances. So be kind to yourself and acknowledge that it’s okay to feel down sometimes. It’s all part of the human experience.
2. Consider what about the future weighs you down
Fear of the unknown can be a heavy burden to bear. Whether it’s worrying about losing your financial stability, your accomplishments, or your health, these concerns are natural when striving for growth. Embrace the challenges that come with advancement and find ways to bridge the gap between where you are and where you want to be.
3. Examine the mindsets that erode your belief in your ability to grow, heal, or get things done
Negative self-talk can be your worst enemy. Challenge the beliefs that hold you back and stop listening to the voice in your head that tells you you’re not good enough. Choose to redirect your thoughts and embrace a more compassionate inner dialogue.
4. Run an objective audit of your resources
Take stock of the internal and external resources you possess. Don’t cling to an outdated version of yourself. Recognize your growth and all the ways you have become stronger. Seek the input of loved ones, and let the evidence of your accomplishments remind you of your capabilities.
5. Consider what perfectionism has been shielding you from
Perfectionism often masks deeper fears and insecurities. Start a compassionate dialogue with your inner self-critic and explore the fears that drive your need for perfection. By understanding and addressing these underlying issues, you can break free from the cycle of striving and find greater fulfillment.
6. Reflect on what changes within you contribute to your numbness
As priorities shift over time, it’s natural to feel lost and uncertain about the future. Embrace the evolution of your values and aspirations, and don’t dismiss your past accomplishments. Reflect on how far you’ve come and the ways in which your experiences have shaped you.
7. Make peace with the time you think you’ve lost
Dysthymia may have slowed you down and made you feel as though you’ve missed out on life. But consider the unexpected gains you’ve made along the way. Celebrate the accomplishments and side projects that have enriched your journey. Remember, a gain is a gain, regardless of its initial motivation.
8. Enjoy the view from the plateau
Take a moment to appreciate how far you’ve come. Imagine showing your younger self everything you’ve achieved. Reflect on all the wildest dreams that have become your reality. And don’t forget to savor the extra bonuses that life has bestowed upon you.
9. Reflect on your values
Designing your life around your core values gives it meaning and direction. Consider the kind of person you aspire to become beyond external achievements. Identify the facets of life that are most important to you and take concrete steps towards embodying those values.
10. Simplify your life
Release the burdens that weigh you down. Identify the tasks, expenses, and relationships that no longer serve you, and let go of needless suffering. Reframe your life around the things that truly matter to you, prioritizing what brings you joy and fulfillment.
11. Commit to yourself
During tough times, it’s essential to prioritize self-care. Establish simple daily practices that support your mental well-being, such as getting morning sunlight, taking deep breaths when stressed, going for walks, hydrating, and nourishing your body. Show up for yourself, even on the hardest of days.
The Road to Fashionably Thriving
As you embark on this journey of growth and healing, remember to give yourself credit for how far you’ve come. Celebrate every small victory and find solace in the fact that you are showing up for yourself. Life is precious, and you have the power to live it on your own terms. So embrace your unique path and create your own good life.
Do you have any tips for thriving with dysthymia? Share them with us in the comments below!
