What causes persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia)?
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What causes persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia)?
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@sarkarsatarupa The cause of dysthymia, although not clear, is likely multifactorial. A biopsychosocial formulation considering the interplay of family history and other genetic factors, medical problems, psychological make-up and coping strategies, and social stressors is helpful when considering the cause of dysthymia. Some examples of common contributing factors include the following:
Genetic predisposition
Biological factors - such as alterations in neurotransmitters, endocrine, or inflammatory mediators
Chronic stress - particularly with feelings of hopelessness and/or helplessness
Chronic medical illness
Psychosocial factors - such as social isolation, losses
Ruminative coping strategies - these, as opposed to problem-solving or cognitive-restructuring strategies, are common among people with dysthymia and may predispose to or sustain dysthymia
Antisocial, borderline, dependent, depressive, histrionic, or schizotypal personality traits - people diagnosed with these are at an increased risk for developing dysthymic disorder