Field Guide · Depressive disorders
Persistent depressive disorder
A lower-grade depression that lasts for years and starts to feel like your personality.
ICD-10-CM F34.1What it looks like
- "I've always been like this"
- Low energy and low self-worth most days
- Functioning, but joyless
What helps
Therapy and often medication. It is treatable even after many years.
What it is not
It is not a character flaw, a lack of willpower, or something you can think your way out of alone. It is a recognized health condition, and it is treatable.
Clinical view
Classified under “Depressive disorders” (ICD-10-CM F34.1). A diagnosis is made by a licensed clinician after a full evaluation of symptoms, their duration, how much they interfere with daily life, and whether a substance or medical condition better explains them.
Typical presentation
- "I've always been like this"
- Low energy and low self-worth most days
- Functioning, but joyless
Evidence-based treatment
Therapy and often medication. It is treatable even after many years.
When substances are in the picture
Alcohol and drugs can cause, hide or worsen these symptoms, and many people use to quiet them. Good care treats both together. See co-occurring conditions.
Written in plain English for education. It is not a diagnosis or medical advice. Demo Clinical review by a licensed professional is part of the launch plan and will be named here.
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