Living with persistent depressive disorder (PDD) can feel like carrying a heavy weight every day. At The Raleigh House, our expert team is here to help you lighten that burden with compassionate, comprehensive care. We are dedicated to supporting your journey toward healing and emotional well-being through personalized treatment that addresses both mental health and co-occurring conditions.
To learn more about PDD treatment, contact us or continue reading below.
What is Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD)?
Persistent depressive disorder (PDD), also known as dysthymia, is a chronic mood disorder where an individual experiences a low or depressed mood over a long period. While sometimes co-occurring with major depressive disorder (MDD), the conditions differ primarily in terms of duration and severity, with the symptoms of PDD being generally milder.
Though both PDD and MDD involve experiencing an enduring depressed mood, PDD must last for at least two years in adults and one year in children and adolescents to meet the diagnostic criteria set by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).
Signs and Symptoms of Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD)
PDD can cause significant impairment in daily functioning, leading to difficulties in personal relationships, work, and school. The chronic nature of the disorder can result in a pervasive sense of hopelessness and a diminished quality of life.
PDD symptoms include the following:
- Feelings of sadness or low mood: A consistent, underlying sense of hopelessness and despair.
- Disinterest in previously enjoyable activities: Loss of joy in hobbies, social engagements, and personal interests.
- Tiredness: Constant fatigue and low energy, regardless of rest.
- Low sense of self-worth: Deep-seated feelings of worthlessness and inadequacy.
- Struggles with focus or concentration: This might also include challenges in making decisions and remembering details.
- Struggles with task completion: Inability to reliably follow through with daily responsibilities and goals.
- Irritability: A heightened sense of anger or moodiness that affects interactions.
- Avoiding social situations: Avoidance of friends and family, leading to isolation.
- Persistent guilt or worry: Ongoing feelings of guilt or anxiety about oneself or one’s life circumstances.
- Over- or under-eating: Loss of appetite or increased appetite leading to noticeable changes in weight.
- Sleep disruptions: Experiencing insomnia or hypersomnia, disrupting sleep patterns.
- Sense of futility: A consistent belief that life lacks meaning or purpose.
PDD can often be mistaken for personality traits due to its chronic and pervasive nature. Because symptoms persist over a long period, they can become ingrained in an individual’s behavior and personality, making it difficult to distinguish between the disorder and the person’s inherent characteristics.
Reasons for Misinterpretation
- Chronic Nature: PDD symptoms last for years, leading others and even the individual to view them as inherent personality traits.
- Subtlety of Symptoms: The symptoms of PDD, such as low self-esteem, pessimism, and social withdrawal, can be subtle and may be interpreted as personality characteristics rather than symptoms of a disorder.
- Normalization of Symptoms: Over time, both the individual and those around them may normalize the depressive symptoms, attributing them to a “negative” or “gloomy” personality.
Common Misinterpretations
- Low Self-Esteem: May be seen as a personality trait of being self-critical or having a negative self-image.
- Pessimism: Can be interpreted as a naturally cynical or negative outlook on life.
- Social Withdrawal: Might be viewed as introversion or a preference for solitude.
- Irritability: Could be mistaken for a character flaw or a generally grumpy disposition.
Persistent Depressive Disorder Causes and Risk Factors
PDD causes are complex and multifactorial. While the causes of PDD might be too diffuse to pinpoint, contributing conditions might include the following:
- Brain Structure: Reduced size of the hippocampus has been associated with PDD.
- Neurotransmitter Regulation: Imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine can contribute to PDD.
- Family History: A genetic predisposition to mood disorders can increase the risk of PDD.
- Chronic Stress: Prolonged exposure to stress can contribute to the development of PDD.
Several situational, emotional, and physical factors can put an individual at higher risk of PDD.
- Past traumas
- Chronic medical conditions (e.g., chronic pain, degenerative illness)
- Substance use disorders
- Mental health comorbidities
Addiction and PDD
Substance use disorder can significantly aggravate and complicate the symptoms of PDD. It can lead to a phenomenon where substance use exacerbates depressive symptoms, and the depressive symptoms, in turn, increase substance use as a form of self-medication.
Diagnosis of Persistent Depressive Disorder
Diagnosis of PDD must be administered by a mental health professional and involves ruling out other issues through the following:
- Physical health evaluation
- Lab tests
- Psychological assessment
PDD Treatment at The Raleigh House
The Raleigh House offers a comprehensive and empathetic approach to PDD treatment exacerbated by substance use disorder. We employ a multifaceted treatment program that includes the following:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This evidence-based therapy helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with both PDD and substance use disorder. CBT equips people with coping strategies to manage their symptoms and reduce the risk of relapse.
- Strong Community Support: The Raleigh House fosters a supportive community environment where individuals can connect with others facing similar challenges. Group therapy sessions and peer support groups provide a sense of belonging and understanding, reducing feelings of isolation and promoting mutual encouragement.
- Medically-Assisted Detox: For those struggling with substance use disorder, medically-assisted detox ensures a safe and supervised withdrawal process. Medical professionals monitor clients closely, providing medications and support to manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.
- Structured Recreational Therapies: Engaging in structured recreational activities helps individuals develop healthy habits and interests. These therapies promote physical well-being, reduce stress, and provide enjoyable outlets for managing symptoms of PDD and substance use disorder.
Our program’s holistic approach addresses both the mental health and substance use aspects of the disorder, providing clients with the tools and support they need to achieve lasting recovery.
Compassionate PDD Care in Colorado
The Raleigh House is dedicated to providing a comprehensive and empathetic approach to addiction treatment, recognizing the complex relationship between substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health disorders. Our clinicians specialize in dual diagnosis, ensuring that both conditions are treated simultaneously for optimal recovery outcomes.
Find hope at one of our two locations:
- The Ranch at The Raleigh House: Our pastoral Colorado space provides a warm and inviting sanctuary for everyone seeking recovery from mental health conditions, trauma, and addiction disorders. Our community provides an oasis of healing, hope, and support through therapies inspired by the regenerative beauty of the natural surroundings.
- The Center for Integrative Behavioral Health: Situated within the Denver Tech Center, our Center for Integrative Behavioral Health delivers uncompromising clinical expertise and transformational support for mental health challenges, trauma, and addiction. We are proud to provide a thoroughly accessible space for everyone starting or continuing their journey to recovery.
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction exacerbated by mental health issues, don’t wait to seek help. The Raleigh House offers the expertise and compassionate care needed to overcome these challenges.
Reach out today to start your journey toward recovery and a healthier, more fulfilling life.