What is the cause of dysthymia?
Key points
- Dysthymia, like depression, is thought to be caused by a combination of biochemical, genetic and environmental factors.
- It seems that certain life events can trigger dysthymia in susceptible people.
Dysthymia, like depression, is thought to be caused by a combination of biochemical, genetic and environmental factors.
It seems that certain life events can trigger dysthymia in susceptible people. Such events include:
- adolescent adjustment problems
- life transitions such as moving, or starting a new school or job
- losses and life crises such as death and divorce
- chronic societal problems such as poverty and unemployment
- stress arising from having to cope with illness or abuse
Written and revised by
Andrey Nailor, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.
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