Depression vs Dysthymia: What’s the Difference?

“Depression” usually refers to major depressive disorder (MDD)—episodes lasting at least two weeks with multiple symptoms that disrupt daily life. Dysthymia, now called persistent depressive disorder (PDD), is a chronic, lower‑grade depression that lasts two years or more in adults.

Yes. Dysthymia is the older term; today clinicians use persistent depressive disorder (PDD) for long‑lasting, low‑grade depression.

Common symptoms of PDD include a low or “down” mood most days, along with issues like fatigue, low self‑esteem, poor concentration, sleep problems, and appetite changes. Symptoms are usually milder than MDD but persist for years and can impair work, school, and relationships.

Diagnosis is clinical: a provider reviews duration, pattern, and impact of symptoms and rules out other causes. In adults, a depressed mood for most days over two or more years plus associated symptoms supports PDD. Screening tools may help, but a clinician makes the diagnosis.

The first‑line approach is usually talk therapy (e.g., CBT or interpersonal therapy), antidepressant medication, or a combination of both; many people do best with the combined plan. Treatment is individualized based on severity, preferences, and prior response.

Yes. People with PDD can experience major depressive episodes on top of their chronic low mood—sometimes called “double depression.”

By definition, PDD lasts at least two years in adults (one year in children/teens). With therapy, medication, and consistent self‑care, symptoms can improve and many people recover meaningful function, though some need long‑term support.

This refers to repeat episodes of major depression separated by periods of recovery. It’s common for depression to recur, so ongoing monitoring and, for some, maintenance treatment are recommended.

Treatment typically includes psychotherapy, antidepressant medication, or both; some people benefit from maintenance therapy or medication to prevent relapse after recovery from an episode.

MDD is episodic and often more intense (≥ 2 weeks), while PDD is chronic and lower‑grade (≥ 2 years). Both can seriously affect daily life and both respond to evidence‑based care.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT) have strong evidence for depressive disorders and are commonly used for PDD, often alongside skills for activity scheduling and coping.

Providers often start with SSRIs or SNRIs; the choice depends on symptoms, medical history, side‑effect profiles, and past treatment response. Medication is frequently paired with psychotherapy for better outcomes.

Risk factors include family history, female sex, and prior depressive episodes; causes are multifactorial, involving biology and life stressors.

Yes. Regular physical activity, healthy sleep, reducing alcohol/drug use, and mindfulness‑based practices can support recovery when combined with clinical care.