Persistent Depressive Disorder

What is Persistent Depressive Disorder?

Persistent Depressive Disorder refers to a condition that is a chronic mood disorder, where one has a persistent low or irritable mood lasting for at least two years in adults (one year in early age). Unlike major depressive disorder which is episodic, PDD is constant and can make one forget what it is like not to be depressed.

Symptoms of Persistent Depressive Disorder can include:

• Feeling hopeless or sad most of the time, almost every day.
• Low energy or fatigue
• Trouble concentrating or making decisions
• Low self-esteem
• Poor appetite or overeating
• Interruptions of sleep (insomnia or oversleeping)
• Some prevalent sense of despondency or pessimism
• Withdrawing from society activities or seclusion

Although the symptoms may not be as severe as in a major depression, the chronic nature of PDD can bring about a substantial impairment in life, relationships, workplace, and physical health.

PDD Causes and Risk Factors

There is no one cause of persistent depressive disorder. Similar to many other mental health conditions, it is usually caused by the combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors.

Common risk factors include:

• Genetic history of depression or mood disorders
• Chronic stress or trauma
• Brain chemical imbalances (especially the serotonin and dopamine ones)
• Comorbid mental health problems (e.g., anxiety or substance abuse)
• Chronic illness or chronic pain are examples of medical conditions.

In DeLand Treatment Solutions, we provide a holistic form of care – one that recognizes the myriad of factors that cause depression, and the treatment goes to the core of the problem and not just the symptoms.

Diagnosing Persistent Depressive Disorder

The diagnosis of PDD can be challenging due to the incremental onset of the symptoms as well as their incorporation into a routine. Many affected with PDD believe that the way they feel is simply “normal for them”. This is why going for a professional evaluation is so important.

Our trained professionals at DeLand Treatment Solutions carry out in-depth psychological assessments, interviews and evidence-based screening tools to provide an effective diagnosis. If you’ve been feeling down for months or years, it is time to get the support you deserve.

Treatment for Persistent Depressive Disorder

Although living with persistent depressive disorder is exhausting, you don’t have to do it alone. DeLand Treatment Solutions delivers all-around mental health support that is designed for your specific needs.

Our treatments for PDD might be the following:

• Individual Therapy
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
• Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
• Group Therapy
• Medication Management
• Dual Diagnosis Support
• Lifestyle and Wellness Services

We incorporate holistic and wellness-oriented practices for long-term recovery which include:

• Nutrition and exercise education
• Mindfulness and meditation training
• Sleep hygiene coaching
• Stress management techniques

When to Seek Help

A persistent depressive disorder is not something that will disappear on its own. If you have been experiencing your symptoms for more than two weeks (let alone months or years), it’s time to take action and reach out. You have either tried therapy before or you are accessing this for the first time, and we’re here to help you at any point in your healing journey.

Do not wait for tomorrow for your tomorrow to feel brighter, start today!!

DeLand Treatment Solutions supports the view that no one should live a meaningless life full of joy and connection. If you are ready to take the next step on the road to recovery from chronic depressive disorder, then we’re ready to take that step with you.

Call (386) 866-8689 for a free, confidential consultation today. Together, we can create the brighter and better-balanced future you deserve.