Treatment
Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include:
Antidepressant Medications
Dysthymia can be treated with antidepressant medications that relieve depression. It may take a few weeks or months before you and your doctor can tell whether antidepressant medications are helping. You may need to take these medications for a number of years. It is important to keep taking them until your doctor tells you to stop.
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy may include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Counseling
- Family therapy
- Interpersonal therapy
Lifestyle Modifications
In addition to medications and therapy, the following lifestyle modifications may help you feel better:
- Participate in enjoyable activities.
- Eat a healthful diet .
- Avoid illegal drugs and alcohol.
- Begin a safe exercise program with the advice of your doctor.
- Have a regular sleep schedule.