Persistent Depressive Disorder: Chronic Low Mood That Lasts for Years

[eric]

Persistent depression also called dysthymia is a long lasting low mood that stays for years. symptoms are less severe than major depression but never really go away. common signs are sadness most days, no interest in normal life, low energy, poor sleep, trouble making decisions, low self worth. People with it can still do daily tasks but feel heavy and drained all the time. Causes link with brain chemicals, stress, trauma, and family history. Treatment may include antidepressant medicine, therapy, exercise, and steady routine. early help can make symptoms easier to manage and improve daily living.

 

[Buhle]

My neighbor who moved through life like everything was normal. He went to work, paid bills, spoke to people, but inside it was always gray. Not the crushing sadness of a sudden tragedy, just a slow heavy weight that never lifted. Nights were restless, mornings felt the same as nights, and simple choices like what to eat or where to go felt like climbing a hill. Friends thought he was fine because he showed up, but he carried a quiet emptiness every day. Years passed, the weight stayed. Only when someone finally named it ( persistent depression ) did it make sense. It wasn’t laziness or weakness, it was an illness that lingered in the background of every moment.