[darkenedsky]

Hello,

I possibly have dysthymia. I say 'possibly' because I've never had an official diagnosis by a psychologist or a psychiatrist. However, I did do some on-line tests which suggested I have it. I also saw a social worker who told me that it seemed to fit. But a lot of the time, I really wonder about it because I don't seem to have what I figure are the typical symptoms of depression.

Here's how I describe it: emotional flat-lining. Flat is my baseline. My other emotions are typically negative: anger, anxiety, depressed thoughts. So my analogy to you would be this: if my emotional life were a road, it would be a flat road w/some potholes scattered throughout & @ least one deeper gully (I possibly had a major depressive episode last yr).

I'm not looking for a diagnosis from you guys cause I know you can't offer them...just wondering if there are other people who feel this particular way? Particularly people who have felt this way for yrs or as long as they can remember?

Thanks all!

[Rohag]

Hello, Darkenedsky! My experience of depression is roughly similar to yours. My official diagnosis is "Major Depressive Disorder," but one professional suggested I had both MDD and Dysthymia. I've read that when both occur together it's called "double depression."

This has gone on for years.

[The Wobbitt]

Hey Darkenedsky,
I can tell you that yes, i have felt just like you for about two years now, but just recently I was oficially diagnosed with depression when anxious, disturbing thoughts led me to visit a psychiatrist. I can totally relate to your description of life as a flat road. There were some days when I just felt like a zombie. The moment I started seeing soeone for help and released my worry, I started to feel better. Times are still rough though. I am delighted to tell you that you are definately not alone.
Best of luck, and all respect,
The Wobbitt