Things Everyone Should Know About Dysthymic Disorder

Related Disorders Continued

A major component of dysthymia and other mood disorders is anhedonia, the decreased or complete inability to experience pleasure, whether from eating, playing games, exercise, hobbies, singing, sexual activities, or social interactions. It is believed to be caused by a disruption in the brain's pleasure response and poor regulation of dopamine levels. Anhedonia is prevalent in schizophrenia and has high rates of comorbidity with depression and social anxiety, as well as other mood disorders including dysthymia. It can be consummatory (a lack of pleasure in typically pleasurable experiences), or motivational (a lack of desire to engage in enjoyable activities).

Learn about the history of dysthymic disorder next.