What causes persistent depressive disorder/dysthymia?

PDD is multifactorial, like most mood disorders.

Contributing factors may include:

1. Biological differences

Changes in neurotransmitter levels (like serotonin, dopamine).

2. Genetics

Family history increases risk.

3. Childhood trauma
   

Abuse, neglect, or early adversity are strong risk factors.

4. Personality traits

People with low self-esteem or high self-criticism are more vulnerable.

I’m highly self-critical and perfectionistic, and it’s very hard to convince myself that “good enough” is acceptable instead of wanting everything to be flawless.

5. Chronic stress or illness

Some studies propose that early-onset PDD is more strongly tied to personality and early environment, while later-onset is more reactive to life events.

Join our forum and Facebook

Please consider joining our forum and Facebook if you enjoyed reading this and would like to chat with like-minded peers about anything depression related.

It would certainly go a long way toward making my dream of creating a thriving, supportive community a reality!