Depression is among the most common mental health disorders today, with more than 20 million people in the United States struggling. However, depression on its own is a very broad term. What many do not realize is that there are various types of depression, each with their own symptoms and level of severity.
For example, major depressive disorder (MDD) and persistent depressive disorder (PDD) are two of the most prevalent types of depression. The diagnoses sound similar, but these disorders affect individuals very differently.
In this article, we’ll break down the differences between MDD and PDD (formerly known as dysthymia), in hopes that you can better identify and understand their symptoms.
Major Depressive Disorder
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is the most well-known type of depression, and is commonly referred to as “clinical depression” for this reason. People battling MDD experience persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness—so much that these symptoms get in the way of their everyday life and functioning. These individuals often struggle to find joy and purpose. MDD is diagnosed when symptoms last for two weeks or more.
Persistent Depressive Disorder (Also Known as Dysthymia)
For years, persistent depressive disorder (PDD) was referred to as “dysthymia,” so we’ll use those terms interchangeably throughout this article. However, please note they mean the same thing. Dysthymia, or PDD, is a less severe—but more chronic—version of depression. It is characterized by a low mood that lasts for years. Those with dysthymia can function on the day-to-day, but may experience episodes of sadness and loneliness. Some describe the condition as a “dark cloud” that looms over them constantly.
MDD vs. Dysthymia/PDD: A Breakdown
The primary difference between PDD and MDD is the duration and severity of their symptoms. PDD or dysthymia is generally less intense and disruptive to a person’s life, but can still cause a detriment to their well-being, as it lasts for a long period of time (at least one to two years). MDD, on the other hand, will experience harsher symptoms that last for a minimum of two weeks.
The symptoms themselves (such as sadness and hopeless) are similar in nature, and treatment methods are shared between these conditions. Let’s compare and contrast these various factors.
Duration
Major depressive disorder (MDD) lasts for two weeks or more. On average, however, this type of depression lasts between six and 12 months. If unaddressed, major depression can become chronic.
Persistent depressive disorder (PDD) lasts for years. In children and adolescents, symptoms lasting one year or more can qualify as PDD. For adults, at least two years of symptoms will mark a PDD diagnosis.
However, for those struggling with PDD, it’s important to note that you don’t need to wait two years to get help. If you’re experiencing symptoms of persistent depression, you may still be treated for your ongoing symptoms. Do not hesitate to reach out to a treatment provider.
Severity
Major depressive disorder tends to bring about more intense symptoms. Those experiencing MDD will face what feel like unending periods of sadness, hopelessness, and emptiness. These feelings will get in the way of their ability to carry out daily activities, and even get out of bed.
Dysthymia, on the other hand, tends to be a bit milder. While symptoms still impair a person’s sense of worth and well-being, they generally can still function at work, school, and home. They will struggle with a low or dark mood just about every day, but typically can still manage everyday life.
Symptoms
The symptoms of MDD and PDD look very similar, but the severity in which they are felt varies between disorders. In general, common symptoms of MDD and dysthymia include:
- Persistent feelings of hopelessness and sadness
- Trouble concentrating or making decisions
- Low energy and mood
- Low self-esteem or self-worth
- Irritability or pessimism
- Loss of interest in things they used to enjoy
Those with MDD might feel more physical symptoms than those with PDD, however. For example, those with clinical depression often experience fatigue, headaches, muscle aches, digestive issues, and severely disrupted sleep. They may also have significant changes in appetite, causing weight loss or gain.
Most notably, those with major depressive disorder can experience thoughts of suicide or self-harm. While these thoughts may occur with dysthymia, suicide risk is three times greater in those with MDD.
Treatment
Both MDD and PDD require professional treatment, which may include a combination of therapy and medication. Most commonly, these types of depressive disorders benefit from behavioral therapy—specifically Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)—which helps a person get to the root of their sadness and develop mechanisms to cope. Other types of therapy include Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), group counseling, family therapy, and holistic modalities like mindfulness and meditation. Depending on the severity of symptoms, antidepressant medications may be offered in conjunction with therapy, to help mitigate and manage the negative effects of these disorders.
Those in treatment for depression may start to see a turning point within a couple of weeks, but longer stretches of treatment are recommended for more positive, sustained outcomes. For example, medications can take six to eight weeks to be really effective. At least 90 days or longer in mental health treatment is also recommended for more severe depressive disorders, and therapy should be continued on an ongoing basis to help manage symptoms and triggers.
Can Dysthymia and Depression Occur Simultaneously?
While major depressive disorder and dysthymia (or persistent depressive disorder) are separate diagnoses, the two can co-occur. According to one study, around 75% of people with dysthymia meet the criteria for at least one major depressive episode. This combination is referred to as “double depression.” Those with PDD and MDD suffer from depressive symptoms for a long period of time, with occasional, severe episodes that make some weeks feel worse.
Feeling Constantly Sad (Or Beyond It)? Get Help Today
When every day feels hard, clouded by a dark mood, irritability, sadness, and a low sense-of-self, it can signal a deeper-seated issue with depression. Even if your symptoms do not seem severe, the constant feeling of being “blue” is enough to warrant a conversation with a treatment professional.
Turnbridge is here to help guide you in the right direction. We are a recognized mental health treatment provider, specializing in the unique experiences of teenagers and young adults. Whether you or your loved one is struggling, we can help you get started on the path to recovery. Call us at 877-581-1793 for a confidential conversation about your treatment options.