* DoctorAdvice4u MEDICAL Q&A:  
- College Student Asks For Help, Likely Has Dysthymia
- Click:  http://www.doctoradvice4u.com/Services_Offered.php 

“ hi Dr. Roshin, I spoke to you a few weeks back at the gym. i wanted to make sure i didn't miss your call. hopefully we'll talk soon, until then hope all is well.”  (Alex, New Jersey)

Dear Alex (New Jersey),

After visiting with you this past weekend (April 29, 2016), I believe you have persistent depressive disorder, also called dysthmia, which is a depressed mood on most days for at least two years.  During episodes of depressed mood, a person presents with at least two of the following symptoms not limited to the following: 1) inability to sleep or oversleeping, 2) alteration in appetite (poor eating or eating too much), 3) sluggishness, 4) low self esteem, 5) lack of concentration, 6) altered sleep patterns (too little or too much sleep), and or 7) feelings of hopelessness. 

 

During our conversation, you mentioned you have ”self doubt, insecurity, no focus, no motivation, hopelessness, and lack energy” ongoing for the past, three years, which began in high school (2012); however, an exacerbation of these symptoms has occurred this past semester in college (Spring 2016).  In fact, you stated that you are “in danger of failing the entire semester curriculum due to unattended classes for majority of the semester. “  Furthermore, you mentioned that you “have thought about taking your life; but, you have never implemented a plan.”

When chronic depressed feelings affect daily performance of activities, school, employment, and or personal relationships, this condition is likely beyond the coping stage, and professional treatment is needed.  The best treatment options available for dysthymia include antidepressant medications and psychotherapy (talking to a psychiatrist or psychologist).  Yet, I do believe psychotherapy, more than medication, can reverse your depressed mood.  During our conversation, what became evident was your unhappiness with the general direction of your life and career.  Thus, after listening to you, I suggested methods to ascertain a career including taking the ASVAB test, talking to your career counselor at your college, and volunteering in those careers that you find interesting.   Remember, college years are a time of self discovery, eventually channeling your energy into areas of interests and likes.  Thus, at age 21, give yourself time to network and discern your career preferences.  When the time arrives to select a career choice, always, follow your heart. 

I am comforted to hear that you practice a faith.  In the darkest of times, when uncertainty flourishes, God is with you, helping to guide your choices; thus, keep the faith.  I have talked to a licensed psychologist, who is willing to visit with you regularly or as needed to help you reverse dysthymia.    I will forward the psychologist contact information to you.   Of course, feel free to call me also, as needed, and stay in touch.   Thank you for question and trust.  God Bless you and God Bless New Jersey.

Respectfully,

Dr. Roshin