Persistent Depressive Disorder Treatment

What Is Persistent Depressive Disorder?

PDD is a chronic form of depression distinct from major depressive disorder (MDD). While both involve depressive symptoms, they differ in symptom duration and intensity.

PDD symptoms are generally less severe but last much longer, often leading to a significant impact on daily functioning and quality of life. People with PDD experience a consistent, low-grade depression that makes it difficult to find joy or satisfaction, unlike MDD, which involves more intense but shorter-term depressive episodes.

Persistent Depressive Disorder Symptoms

Common symptoms of PDD include:

• Persistent, low mood.
• Fatigue.
• Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness.
• Low self-esteem.
• Changes in appetite (e.g., over- or undereating).
• Changes to sleeping habits (e.g., insomnia or sleeping too much).
• Lack of concentration.
• Difficulty performing at work or school.
• Limited energy.

The licensed therapists at Beach House can help you understand why you’re experiencing symptoms of PDD and manage your symptoms using effective coping mechanisms and evidence-based treatment therapies.

Causes and Risk Factors

Researchers do not know the exact cause of PDD, but many factors may contribute to its development. These include:

• Brain chemistry
  An imbalance of feel-good hormones like serotonin and dopamine may negatively impact mood stability over time.
• Family history
  Those with a parent, child, or sibling with PDD or another type of clinical depression or anxiety disorder.
• Chronic health conditions
  Individuals with long-term conditions like diabetes, heart disease, multiple sclerosis (MS), and chronic pain.
• Traumatic experiences
  Prolonged stress, isolation, neglect, or difficult life events (e.g., divorce or abuse) with limited or no support.
• Certain medications and substance use
  Certain medications, alcohol, and drug use can worsen symptoms and contribute to PDD.

If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of persistent depressive disorder or are concerned you are at risk, consult your healthcare provider or a mental health professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

A Look at PDD Diagnosis

A persistent depressive disorder diagnosis requires a thorough evaluation by a mental health professional based on criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5)book, published by the American Psychiatric Association. These criteria include:

• Consistently low or depressed mood for two years or longer.
• Low energy or fatigue.
• Low self-esteem.
• Persistent feelings of inadequacy.
• Reduced interest in activities and hobbies.
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions.

Persistent depressive disorder often goes undiagnosed because symptoms are mild and frequently mistaken as normal or “a part of someone’s personality.” However, while they may seem manageable day-to-day, they can significantly impact your quality of life over time.

To further support a diagnosis, your healthcare provider or mental health professional may recommend one or more of the following diagnostic tests to identify or rule out underlying health conditions that could impact your mood. These include:

• Thyroid test
  Low thyroid levels can negatively impact energy and mood.
• Blood glucose test
  Low blood sugar can negatively impact mood and emotional stability.
• Vitamin D test
  Low vitamin D is linked to a higher risk of depressive symptoms.
• Toxicology screen
  Substance use or withdrawal can contribute to depressive symptoms.

These assessments help ensure you receive the most effective, individualized treatment for persistent depressive disorder. If you or a loved one experiences persistent symptoms of depression, consider speaking with a healthcare provider or mental health professional.

Beach House Center for Recovery offers compassionate care and evidence-based treatment modalities to help you achieve optimal mental wellness and emotional stability.

Treatment Options

PDD can be treated with a combination of talk therapy, medication, and healthy lifestyle habits.

• Medication
  Antidepressants are a common treatment option for those with PDD. However, it may take weeks for noticeable improvements to occur because the brain needs time to rewire or adequately shift negative thought patterns.
• Talk therapy
  The most effective talk therapy for persistent depressive disorder is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) because it helps you learn how to identify and change or reframe negative thoughts, helping you better understand the root cause of your depressive thoughts.
• Healthy lifestyle habits
  Making a few healthy lifestyle changes can help prevent depression or improve its symptoms. Here are some things you can try in addition to medication and talk therapy:
  
  
  • Engage in moderate physical activity 20 minutes per day, three times a week.
  • Try meditating for 30 minutes a day for eight weeks.
  • Aim for one to three hours of social interaction per day.
  • Write in a journal for about 20 minutes every day just before bed.
  • Take steps to simplify your life and eliminate activities or takes that do not serve a purpose.
  • Avoid making important decisions until you are feeling better.

Get Help with PDD Today

Beach House Center for Recovery offers several mental health treatment programs to help you find healing, hope, and a path to a brighter tomorrow.

Contact us today to get started.