No, I doubt it. Look how the field of psychiatry and psychology continue to evolve. They revise the DSM constantly and medicine, in the end, are best guesses. They are guesses, but well educated guesses. I wasn't given the correct diagnosis for decades. You can have three docs in a room (like people) and have six opinions. Sometimes they are all wrong. But they are the best trained and experienced to rely upon. Greater insight into the thinking of others and your own understanding is not your fault. Its your advocacy for your own health. That's a good thing.
January 5
Have others been diagnosed with dysthymia or persistent depressive disorder?
Yes, dysthymia (now called persistent depressive disorder) is a recognized form of depression that lasts for two years or more. It's characterized by a chronic low mood that can range from mild to more severe periods.
Many people with this Show Full Answer
Have others been diagnosed with dysthymia or persistent depressive disorder?
Yes, dysthymia (now called persistent depressive disorder) is a recognized form of depression that lasts for two years or more. It's characterized by a chronic low mood that can range from mild to more severe periods.
Many people with this condition describe themselves similarly to how you do - as having a certain personality style that involves enduring difficult feelings over long periods. The "sympathetic stoic" description resonates with how persistent depressive disorder can feel - like a steady, ongoing low mood that you've learned to live with rather than dramatic ups and downs.
A person with persistent depressive disorder may have periods of deeper depression followed by milder symptoms, but the key is that symptoms persist for at least two years. This differs from major depressive disorder, which involves more intense episodes that may come and go.
It's worth noting that while you may have adapted to living with these symptoms over 20 years, treatment options including therapy and medication can help improve quality of life. Many people find that addressing persistent depressive disorder, even after living with it for years, can make a meaningful difference.
AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to
diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.
Types of Depression
December 31, 2025
I have MDD since 1996. But now someone said I have a personality disorder. BPD. I don’t understand why the switch. That diagnosis just screams everything is my fault
January 3
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