Treatment and Prevention
Dysthymia is treated with a similar approach to that of depression - with medication and psychotherapy. The most effective treatment is a combination of strategies.
Antidepressant medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs; e.g., fluoxetine*, citalopram, fluvoxamine, paroxetine, sertraline), may be used in the treatment of dysthymia.
Short-term psychotherapeutic approaches to treating dysthymia are quite effective at treating the symptoms of depression. Effective psychotherapies include cognitive behavioral psychotherapy, interpersonal psychotherapy, and peer support.
- Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) helps people understand how their thoughts affect feelings, and how feelings affect behavior.
- Interpersonal therapy (IT) involves focusing on problems with a person's relationships with others.
- Group therapy may also be used to help manage dysthymia.
The herbal preparation St. John's wort may also be helpful in mild depression. Although several studies have shown some benefit, results have been inconsistent. Caution must be advised before people self-medicate to treat dysthymia. Just because a remedy is available over the counter and is herbal doesn't mean that it's safe. Adverse reactions to and drug interactions with herbal remedies are increasingly reported. Before turning to St. John's wort to treat dysthymia, it's vital to first discuss this option with a doctor or pharmacist.
It is an unfortunate myth that dysthymia is not a treatable medical condition. It is treatable and many people do recover with treatment.
*All medications have both common (generic) and brand names. The brand name is what a specific manufacturer calls the product (e.g., Tylenol®). The common name is the medical name for the medication (e.g., acetaminophen). A medication may have many brand names, but only one common name. This article lists medications by their common names. For more information on brand names, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
Paul Ballas, DO, Attending Psychiatrist, Friends Hospital, Philadelphia PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.