What is low-grade depression that Michelle Obama suffers from? All you need to know about the condition
The former first lady of the US, Michelle Obama, has said she is suffering from “low-grade depression” because of the coronavirus pandemic, racial injustice and the "hypocrisy" of the Donald Trump administration. What is low-grade depression and how does it affect people?
A chronic form of depression
Persistent depressive disorder, also known as dysthymia, is characterized by chronic low-level depression that can last for at least two years in adults or one year in children and teens. It is a serious disorder that can impact behavior as well as physical functions, including appetite and sleep. A person diagnosed with persistent depressive disorder may have episodes of major depression along with periods of less severe symptoms. Symptoms must last for two years to be considered or diagnosed as persistent depressive disorder, explains the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).
“It refers to a long-term drone of low-grade depression that lasts for at least two years in adults or one year in children and teens. While not necessarily as crippling as major depression, its persistent hold can keep you from feeling good and interfere with your work, school, family, and social life. Think of dysthymia as a dim gray compared to depression's blackness,” describes Harvard.
According to Johns Hopkins, it is a milder, but long-lasting form of depression. “People with this condition may also have bouts of major depression at times. Depression is a mood disorder that involves your body, mood, and thoughts. It affects the way you eat and sleep, think about things, and feel about yourself. It’s not the same as being unhappy or in a ‘blue’ mood. It’s not a sign of weakness or something that can be willed or wished away. People with depression can’t “snap out of it” and get better. Treatment is key to recovery,” write experts.
What are the symptoms?
Persistent depressive disorder symptoms usually come and go over a period of years, and their intensity can change over time. Symptoms may vary and include lasting sad, anxious, or ‘empty’ mood, lack of energy, fatigue and sleep problems, trouble making decisions and concentrating, lack of interest in daily activities, feeling hopeless, low self-esteem and weight and/or appetite changes due to over-or under-eating, among others. In children, symptoms of persistent depressive disorder may include depressed mood and irritability.
“Conditions that may be linked with persistent depressive disorder include reduced quality of life, substance abuse, relationship difficulties and family conflicts, school, and work problems and decreased productivity, and suicidal thoughts or behavior, among others,” according to Mayo Clinic.
What is the cause?
There is no clear cause for this type of depression. Mental health professionals think it could be as a result of chemical imbalances in the brain. Multiple factors — environmental, psychological, biological, and genetic — are thought to contribute to depression. Brain trauma and a history of other mental health conditions could contribute to the development of this condition. Chronic stress has also been linked to this condition. Traumatic events such as the loss of a loved one or financial problems can trigger persistent depressive disorder in some people. Genetics could also be a factor. “Persistent depressive disorder appears to be more common in people whose blood relatives also have the condition. Researchers are trying to find genes that may be involved in causing depression,” says Mayo.
Treating the condition
People with dysthymia often grow used to the mild depressive symptoms and do not seek help. But, early diagnosis and treatment are key to recovery. Health experts recommend reaching out to a professional as soon as possible. A trained mental health professional may recommend a mix of talk therapy and medication.