Chronic Depression

Definition

Chronic depression is a type of depressive disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities. It lasts for an extended period, typically more than two years.

Related terms

Dysthymia: Dysthymia is a milder but longer-lasting form of chronic depression. It involves experiencing depressive symptoms for at least two years but not as severe as major depressive disorder.

Double Depression: Double depression occurs when an individual with dysthymia experiences a major depressive episode on top of their existing chronic low-grade depressive symptoms.

Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD): PDD is another term used to describe chronic depression or dysthymia. It refers to long-term depressed mood that persists for at least two years with intermittent periods of less severe symptoms.